Learning how to paint with watercolor was a game-changer for artist Craig Witte, ultimately leading to his role as an illustrator for the beloved Curious George series. It’s funny how life works out sometimes. Back in college, Witte was required to take a watercolor class... yes, an entire course dedicated to watercolor painting (and yes, he remembers the eye rolls). At first, he struggled. His early attempts were laughable, with water and pigment swirling into unrecognizable blobs on the paper.

Determined to improve, Craig Witte devoted that year to mastering watercolor techniques. He visited art museums to study the works of renowned watercolorists, checked out countless books from the library, and most importantly, practiced relentlessly. Over time, he began to understand the delicate balance required to control water and paint, learning how to create beautiful washes and intricate details.

Through persistence and hard work, Witte transformed his initial failures into a refined skill that brought both personal satisfaction and unexpected professional opportunities. Who would have thought that those early struggles with watercolor painting would one day lead him to illustrate the adventures of a mischievous little monkey?

Craig Witte’s journey as a watercolor artist is a testament to the power of perseverance and creative growth. Life has a way of surprising us, and sometimes the challenges we face become the stepping stones to the most rewarding places.