Finding a Home Between Oceans and Colors

Artwork and story by Grace Gu

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Art has always been the quiet language that explains what words cannot in my life. Growing up between countries, cultures, and languages, "home" felt fluid—until I found watercolor. I have always loved the ocean, its endless waves and horizons calling to me. Sketchbook in hand, paints by my side, I anchored myself through transitions, from childhood relocations to a finance career in a numbers-driven world. Painting became my breath, my reflection, my emotional truth.

Watercolor mirrors my life: pigments bloom unpredictably in water, colors merge at edges, beauty emerges from surrender. My seascape captures this—soft skies, translucent waves evoking calm, freedom, belonging. Amid professional demands and analytical days, art restores balance. Yet, self-taught via tutorials and trial-error, I face gaps: muddy washes, uncontrolled edges. Vision outpaces skill—luminous skies stay trapped in mind.

Watercolor Academy delivers this—progressive, principled curriculum explaining "why" behind techniques. As a detail-oriented finance pro, I value its systematic path to fix habits.

Winning means no more postponing education. If you see in my seascape that same longing for the sea's peace and freedom, vote for me. You recognize the dream of vast horizons. This course will sharpen my technical skills—I'll study diligently, share my progress, and inspire others like us.