We recently connected with Kendra Brazzel and have shared our conversation below.

Kendra, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

The moment I realized I wanted to pursue art professionally came later in life—I had just turned 50, to be exact. In many ways, you could call me a late bloomer.

Like so many, the solitude of the Covid-19 lockdowns forced me to confront my inner world. I had recently made a major move, relocating from the fast-paced energy of Southern California to the quieter shores of Tampa, Florida. It was a stark contrast and, frankly, the quiet was jarring at first. My life had been a whirlwind of raising two children, navigating a marriage and divorce, and working tirelessly for a demanding attorney. It was a constant juggling act, and the busyness had become a habit—a way to keep unhappiness at bay.

But as the world slowed, so did I. Somewhere amidst the stillness, I stumbled across abstract painting classes online and decided to take the leap. I didn’t expect much; it was simply something to fill the time. But the act of painting unlocked something profound. It wasn’t about perfection or expectation—it was about process, exploration, and expression. I could lose myself in the flow, and it was liberating in a way I hadn’t known was possible. It sparked a journey of self-discovery that I’m still on today.

Fast forward two years: I had been painting quietly, just for myself. Then, in November 2022, everything changed. I had submitted two pieces to a group show at a gallery in Ocala, and it felt like a defining moment. I was nervous as I walked into the gallery, alone and unsure, surrounded by a sea of artists and their creations—about 150 canvases, each telling its own story. And there, amongst them, hung mine.

The reception that night was both thrilling and terrifying. I met a community of artists whose work I deeply admired, and in those conversations, I began to feel a sense of belonging. It was an evening that would forever alter my path. To my astonishment, I won “Best in Show,” and one of my pieces was even taken home by the owner of a local gallery. In that single, magical moment, I knew. I knew this wasn’t just a hobby anymore. Art was no longer a private practice—it was my passion, my future.

Looking back now, it’s wild to think how much has unfolded in less than two years, but that night will always stand out as the beginning of something extraordinary.

Kendra, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Once I began sharing my art with the world, I truly embraced the journey. While I do sell my paintings and participate in exhibitions, the greatest fulfillment comes from inspiring others. Last summer, I started posting videos on Instagram showcasing my atmospheric watercolor process. The fluid motion of the colors—dancing, swirling, and flowing across the paper until they settle into place—has captivated viewers. People often describe it as relaxing and even hypnotic, with one follower calling it “visual valium.”

As the videos gained attention, I began receiving numerous questions from people eager to try it themselves. I found myself spending hours each week responding to comments about the materials and techniques. After repeated requests for tutorials, I decided to take the leap and launched a YouTube channel. This platform allows me to dive deeper into the process through longer, more detailed videos.

The response has been overwhelming, and I’m continually amazed by the interest in my process. Sharing my techniques and inspiring others to explore their creativity has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my artistic journey.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the connection I’m able to create—both with myself and with others. Art has given me a profound way to express emotions and thoughts that words can’t capture, and sharing that with the world is incredibly fulfilling. Whether it’s through a painting that resonates with someone on a deep emotional level or a process video that inspires a person to try something creative for the first time, I’m constantly reminded of the power of art to move, soothe, and inspire.

What I cherish most is the way people respond to my work, often describing it as a moment of peace or a source of inspiration. Knowing that something I created can bring calm or spark creativity in someone else is an indescribable feeling. That sense of connection and impact is, without a doubt, the most rewarding part of being an artist.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

In just over a year, I’ve grown my Instagram following from around 700 friends, family, and acquaintances to over 118K followers, which still feels surreal to me. It all started last summer when I began sharing reels that showcased my watercolor process. At first, I didn’t have any grand expectations—social media algorithms can be a mystery—but something clicked. People responded with curiosity and enthusiasm, which gave me the motivation to keep sharing.

As I reflect on the journey, I realize that part of my success came from being transparent. I’ve always been open about my process and the materials I use, and I genuinely try to respond to as many questions and comments as I can. I think this openness has helped build trust with my audience and set me apart from others. The validation from seeing thousands of people appreciate my work not only boosted my confidence but also encouraged me to continue evolving as an artist.

For those just starting out on social media, my advice would be to focus on authenticity. Share what you love and don’t be afraid to show your process, even the imperfect parts. Consistency is key, but so is engaging with your audience—building a connection is just as important as building content. Most of all, enjoy the journey and allow your passion to shine through.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kendrabrazzel.art/
• Instagram: @kendrabrazzelart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KendraBrazzelArt
• Linkedin: Kendra Brazzel
• Youtube: @KendraBrazzzelArt
• Other: Email: [email protected]

Image Credits

Leah Monday, Pnuema Photos