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Hello.

Watercolor is my happy place - and my favorite way to connect with people. One brushstroke was all it took to hook me.

Kellys favorite watercolor of cattails on an autumn day.
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My Story

I grew up in Saline, Michigan, and my art reflects my Midwest roots.

 

My path here wasn’t traditional. I studied Communication and Graphic Arts at Eastern Michigan University, built a career in government service, and then - during a 2020 art weekend - picked up a brush just for fun. A few rocks and acrylic paints later, I stumbled into watercolor in 2023, and it was love at first wash.

 

Self-taught at first (thanks, YouTube), I found my footing with Jean Haines’ Online Art School, where I learned to embrace looseness and flow. Now retired, I spend my days painting, traveling, and sharing watercolor with others.

 

That passion led me to create Beginners ONLY Watercolor -  classes built to make watercolor simple, welcoming, and fun. No rigid rules, no “right” style—just the essential techniques that help beginners build confidence, discover their voice, and fall in love with painting.

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Be the first to know about new classes, tips for beginners, and watercolor joy!

It’s fun and stress-free - just like our classes.

Kelly and student

CONTACT

Kelly Bortles So

Saline, Michigan

water.color.kelly@gmail.com

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