Even when two watercolor tubes share the same name or pigment number, they can behave in surprisingly different ways across brands. In this blog, I reflect on my hands-on comparisons of over 200 watercolors from M. Graham, Daniel Smith, Schmincke, Winsor & Newton, Holbein, QoR, and more. I break down which pigments shine, which ones surprise, and how subtle differences in granulation, opacity, and flow shape my artistic choices. Whether you’re a painter or a pigment lover, you’ll find insights here to guide your own color decisions.

Choosing the right colors can transform your art—and it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. In my latest video, I share how I select color palettes that set the tone for a painting, featuring a hands-on look at a tool called Palette Scout. If you’ve ever struggled with picking colors that feel just right, this guide is packed with practical tips, inspiration, and a process you can make your own.

As I prepared to move from Munich to Washington, I decided to leave 65 of my paintings on the streets with a “Gratis Kunst” (free art) sign. To my surprise, 20 pieces were taken on the first day alone, including abstract, colorful works, while more personal portraits—like those of my son—were left behind. This experiment taught me that public taste can be unpredictable, yet it reaffirmed the value of creating art for the joy it brings. While some pieces were snatched up quickly, what truly matters is painting what fulfills me, regardless of how others respond.