It's completely normal to feel disappointed when things don't turn out the way you hoped, especially when you're learning something new like watercolor painting. The good news is that mistakes are an essential part of the learning process, and every artist has been through them at some point. Here are some steps to help you feel better about the painting and turn this experience into a positive one:
Take a break: Step away from the painting for a little while. Sometimes, coming back with fresh eyes can make you see things differently and give you new ideas on how to proceed.
Practice self-compassion: Remember that everyone makes mistakes, and it's an opportunity to learn and improve. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it's okay not to be perfect right away.
Analyze the mistakes: Take a closer look at the painting and try to identify what went wrong. This can be a valuable learning experience as you understand what to avoid or improve in the future.
Learn from the experience: Use this as a chance to grow as an artist. Take note of the specific areas you struggled with and consider practicing those skills separately. Perhaps watch some tutorials or take a class to enhance your watercolor techniques.
Experiment and try again: Don't be afraid to experiment with your watercolors. Each attempt is an opportunity to learn and improve your skills. You can even try incorporating the "ruined" elements into a new painting as part of your style.
Talk to other artists: Share your experience with fellow artists or join an art community online. You'll likely find that many artists have faced similar situations and can offer valuable advice and encouragement.
Find inspiration: Look at the work of artists you admire and remind yourself that they, too, faced challenges along their artistic journey. Use their work as inspiration to keep going.
Celebrate your progress: Keep track of your progress by saving your artwork over time. Looking back at your earlier works will help you see how much you've grown as an artist.
Reward yourself for trying: Acknowledge that the act of creating itself is an achievement. Every time you paint, you're building your skills and creativity.
Set realistic expectations: Remember that you're just starting with watercolors, and mastery takes time. Don't expect perfection from yourself too soon.
Lastly, keep in mind that art is a journey, and it's about enjoying the process as much as the end result. Embrace the learning experience, and with practice and patience, you'll see improvement and success in your watercolor journey. Don't be discouraged; instead, use this setback as fuel for your artistic growth. Keep painting, experimenting, and having fun!