In a world where creativity often flourishes amid challenges, Talina Padilla has embraced her passion for watercolor painting to inspire others. Starting her journey as a “pandemic artist” in April 2020, Talina transformed her personal exploration into a vibrant community through her project, Doodles by Talina. What began as a way to document her artistic growth has blossomed into a mission to connect, uplift, and empower fellow artists. Join us as we dive into Talina’s journey, exploring how art has become a source of healing, connection, and joy in her life and the lives of those she touches.
- What first inspired you to start Doodles by Talina?
I first started Doodles by Talina as a way to document and share my watercolor journey, which began in April 2020. I’m what you’d call a “pandemic-artist.” Initially, I was following a local watercolor artist’s Instagram lives every weekday after putting my kids to bed, and that experience sparked something in me. The sense of community, the ability to create beauty, and the peace I found in painting motivated me to start my own Instagram account and share my growth with others.
- Can you share a bit about your journey and how it led you to this creative project?
My journey began as a personal exploration during a challenging time in the world, balancing life with four kids and the stress of online schooling. Watercolor became my refuge. I immersed myself in online tutorials, particularly in florals, and started to connect with other artists from all over the world. The support and encouragement I received from this community played a huge role in my growth, and eventually, I wanted to give back and help others on their creative journeys. That’s how Doodles by Talina was born.
- How does your art practice contribute to your own mental well-being?
Art has been a therapeutic outlet for me, especially during challenging times. Painting allows me to express emotions that are sometimes hard to put into words, and it offers a sense of peace and fulfillment. Whether it’s the meditative strokes of a brush or the joy of seeing a piece come to life, my art practice is super important for maintaining my mental well-being.
- What are some ways you’ve seen art bring people together through your work?
Art has this incredible ability to create connections, and I’ve witnessed that firsthand through my work. Whether it’s through online communities, where artists share tips and support each other, or in my personal life, teaching others to paint. The relationships I’ve built and the mutual encouragement we share have been one of the most rewarding aspects of this journey. Art has this universal language that can bring people together, regardless of their background.
- Can you describe a specific moment or experience that affirmed your decision to pursue this project?
One of the most affirming moments for me has been teaching my 98-year-old grandmother how to paint with watercolors. We’ve been doing this together for a year now, and it’s brought her so much joy, hope, and solace. Seeing her embrace something new at her age has been incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about the painting itself but about the connection and the joy that comes from expressing oneself through art. This experience has made me realize how powerful and valuable art can be in bringing comfort and happiness to others, and it has strengthened my resolve to share this practice with more people.
- What have been the biggest challenges in making Doodles by Talina profitable, and how have you addressed them?
The biggest challenge has been balancing the creative side of my work with the business aspects. It’s easy to get lost in the joy of creating, but turning that into a profitable venture requires a different mindset. I’ve had to learn about marketing, sales, and community building, often through trial and error. I’ve also leaned on the support of the artist community and invested time in understanding my audience’s needs, which has helped me create products and services that resonate with them.
- How do you stay motivated and focused, especially during tough times?
Staying motivated and focused, especially during tough times, comes down to remembering my “why.” My art practice is deeply tied to my sense of purpose and well-being, and that keeps me going even when things get hard. I also make a point to paint every day, even if it’s just for ten minutes. This daily practice keeps my creative muscles strong and helps me maintain a connection to the joy of painting.
- How has your personal background and experiences influenced your artistic style and themes?
My background and experiences have greatly influenced my artistic style and themes. Growing up with a mix of outdoor fun and curiosity, art became a way to explore and express my feelings. My love for nature and the simple beauty of everyday life often finds its way into my work. Additionally, my journey of teaching my grandmother has deepened my appreciation for the therapeutic aspects of art, and I try to infuse that sense of peace and healing into my pieces.
- What role does community play in your work, and how do you engage with your audience?
Community is at the heart of my work. The encouragement and support I’ve received from other artists have been vital to my growth, and I strive to give back in the same way. I engage with my audience by sharing my journey, offering tips and tutorials, and creating spaces for them to share their work and experiences. I believe in building a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome to explore their creativity. This became very tangible when I started giving in person workshops. I can see how people light up when they create something beautiful that they love.
- Can you talk about a particular piece or project that holds special meaning for you and why?
One project that holds special meaning for me is a series of watercolor florals I created early in my journey. These pieces represent a time of personal growth and healing for me. Each flower I painted was a step toward finding my voice as an artist, and they remind me of the peace and fulfillment that art has brought into my life. These florals also resonated with my audience, which further affirmed my decision to pursue this path.
- How do you balance the creative and business aspects of your project?
Balancing the creative and business aspects requires a mix of discipline and passion. It’s been a rollercoaster, with its ups and downs, especially as I juggle life with kids. I set aside time specifically for creative work, where I focus solely on painting and experimenting without worrying about the business side. Then, I have dedicated time for planning, marketing, and engaging with my audience. This structure helps me ensure that both sides of the project get the attention they need without overwhelming myself.
- What advice would you give to other women who are trying to turn their creative passions into a business?
My advice would be to start small and stay consistent. It’s easy to get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results, but building a creative business takes time and perseverance. Focus on your passion, share your journey authentically, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. Also, remember that the more you give back to your community, the more fulfilling your journey will be.
- How do you handle criticism or setbacks in your work?
Handling criticism and setbacks is challenging, but I’ve learned to see them as opportunities for growth. I try to separate myself from the work and look at the feedback objectively, asking myself what I can learn from it. It’s also important to remember that not every piece of criticism is valid, so I trust my instincts and lean on the support of those who understand my vision. Setbacks are a natural part of the process, and each one teaches me something valuable.
- What self-care practices do you incorporate to maintain your mental health while managing your project?
To maintain my mental health, I focus on giving back to others through my art. Sharing my work, teaching others, and engaging with my community provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I also make time to paint alone, without any particular purpose, simply to unwind and relax. This alone time allows me to recharge and reconnect with my creativity. Prayer is another important part of my routine, helping me stay centered and connected to my values. Knowing that my work can bring joy and healing to others keeps me grounded and motivated, even during challenging times.
- Looking ahead, what are your goals for Doodles by Talina and how do you plan to achieve them?
My goals for Doodles by Talina include expanding my reach and building a larger community of watercolor enthusiasts. I also aim to diversify my offerings, such as creating more in-depth tutorials, hosting in-person workshops, and possibly launching more retreats like the one in Costa Rica. Additionally, I plan to grow my Etsy shop, offering unique watercolor products and resources. I plan to achieve these goals by staying true to my vision, consistently engaging with my audience, and exploring new opportunities to share my passion for watercolor.
IG & Threads: @doodlesbytalina
