For years, Jeannet (ジャンネット) had been creating abstract mixed-media collages, paintings, and art prints inspired by the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi. Her work celebrates the beauty in imperfection, embracing the natural aging process of materials and the fleeting nature of beauty. Yet, despite her passion and dedication, Jeannet found herself at a creative crossroads. Then, she discovered The Way of Wabi-Sabi Collage with Donna Watson.
The challenges of stagnation
Jeannet’s artistic journey was not without its obstacles. Living in the Netherlands, she found it challenging to access courses in mixed-media. “The courses that are available are physically far away and do not provide the freedom that online training gives you,” she explains. Even when she could access training, Jeannet felt they often failed to respect the unique path she had already traveled as an artist.
This lack of access to meaningful resources left Jeannet grappling with feelings of inadequacy. “For a long time, I felt like I wasn’t getting any further,” she recalls. “Like I wasn’t good enough or able to develop myself further.” The weight of this stagnation became a “painter’s block”—a restless, listless state where inspiration felt out of reach.
Jeannet also found herself seeking external validation for her art. “I let myself be guided too much by the approval of others,” she admits, acknowledging how this need for approval conflicted with the deeply personal and creative act of making art. “Art for me is about creating. It is something I have to do, a life goal, a lifeline, my dharma.”
The turning point
Everything changed when Jeannet discovered Donna Watson’s course, The Way of Wabi-Sabi Collage, through Fibre Arts Take Two. Initially, Jeannet hesitated. The course—with its rich modules, beautifully filmed videos, and in-depth approach—seemed almost too good to be true. “I thought it wasn’t for me,” she recalls, believing it might be too expensive or require prior training. Yet, her admiration for Donna’s work and her desire to break free from creative stagnation propelled her to take the leap.
Transformation through learning
The Way of Wabi-Sabi Collage turned out to be exactly what Jeannet needed. One of the most impactful lessons for her was the concept of creating a visual focal point. “I made my work far too busy, wanted to tell too much at once,” Jeannet shares. “Donna brought peace and simplicity.” By introducing her to the value of balance and focus, Donna’s teachings helped Jeannet refine her approach and embrace the beauty of simplicity.
The course also provided a safe and inspiring environment for experimentation. “What is crucial is that I dare to try again, to fail, to experiment, and to surprise myself,” Jeannet says.
This renewed courage allowed her to reconnect with her creative spirit and rediscover the joy in her work. “Sometimes I even get emotional,” she adds. “Then I can really think... did I really make that? How beautiful!”
A new chapter
Since completing the course, Jeannet has experienced a profound transformation in both her art and her confidence. She’s overcome her hesitation to try new techniques and has found ways to blend her previous experience with newfound insights. “The quality has increased enormously,” she says, noting significant improvements in composition, material use, and form.
Her achievements have extended beyond personal growth. Jeannet’s work has gained recognition in the Netherlands, leading to two exhibitions and an invitation to participate in a public art initiative.
“A new world has opened up,” she says. “I was invited to open an exhibition in the Kunstencentrum Idea in my hometown and participate in a Wall of Art in another municipality.”
Encouragement for others
To those considering enrolling in a Fibre Arts Take Two course, Jeannet has one message: “Go for it! Give yourself this chance to grow as an artist, to expand your techniques, but also to learn to apply them in other ways. You can do it. You deserve it. Show the world who you are!”
Looking ahead
Jeannet’s journey is far from over. Her goal is to continue learning, experimenting, and refining her unique style, combining mixed media with self-designed patterns and Japanese influences. With her renewed confidence and inspiration, she’s embracing her identity as an artist and looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.
As Jeannet beautifully sums up:
“I am now truly an artist in heart and soul. And more importantly, I can be the artist I am.”
About The Way of Wabi-Sabi Collage
Whether you’re a seasoned collage artist or looking to find a new medium, The Way of Wabi-Sabi Collage is designed to stimulate your creativity and help you break new ground. "No matter where you are in your artistic journey, you're going to learn something new in this workshop," assures Donna.
Aligned with the wabi-sabi philosophy, which finds beauty in the impermanent and imperfect, this course encourages you to embrace each artistic challenge. Donna champions the unexpected lessons found in imperfection. These experiences aren't just about correcting errors; they're about the rich, educational journey each mistake creates.
The Way of Wabi Sabi Collage is ideal for creatives eager to learn about wabi-sabi philosophy and how they can introduce elements and methods into their art practice. All while finding your own voice and identity through your content and artwork.
