EP #18: Lana Privitera | Painting on the Bumpy Side & Seeing Watercolor Clearly | Wet On Wet Podcast

In this thoughtful and deeply grounded episode of the Wet On Wet Podcast, host Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally respected watercolor artist and educator Lana Privitera — widely known for her clear teaching philosophy, expressive yet controlled watercolor work, and decades of experience guiding artists toward deeper understanding rather than surface-level technique.

Lana’s journey in watercolor spans years of disciplined practice, teaching, experimentation, and reflection. In this conversation, she speaks openly about what happens when watercolor doesn’t flow the way we expect — what she describes as painting on the bumpy side. Rather than fighting resistance, Lana shares how learning to slow down, observe, and respond thoughtfully can transform both the painting and the painter.

This episode moves beyond shortcuts and stylistic trends, focusing instead on patience, clarity of seeing, material understanding, and the quiet mindset required to grow in watercolor over time. It’s a calm, honest discussion that will resonate deeply with artists at every stage of their journey.

Guest — Lana Privitera

Website:
https://www.lanaprivitera.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/lanaprivitera/

Profession: Watercolor Artist, Educator
Medium: Watercolor
Style: Observational, expressive realism

Known For:

• Thoughtful, process-driven watercolor approach
• Clear articulation of watercolor fundamentals
• Teaching patience, observation, and material awareness
• Emphasis on values, edges, and restraint
• Encouraging long-term artistic growth over quick results

Based in: United States

Host — Sunil Kalbandi

Website:
https://kalbandi.com

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sunilkalbandi

Podcast: Wet On Wet Podcast

Key Insights & Reflections from Lana Privitera

• “Watercolor teaches us to slow down and really see.”
• “When things don’t go smoothly, that’s where learning begins.”
• “You don’t need to force the paint — you need to understand it.”
• “Patience is not optional in watercolor.”
• “The surface will tell you what it needs, if you listen.”
• “Painting isn’t about control alone — it’s about response.”
• “Mistakes often reveal what we haven’t fully understood yet.”

Techniques, Principles & Artistic Philosophy Discussed

Painting on the bumpy side — understanding uneven surfaces, resistance, and unpredictability as essential parts of watercolor rather than problems to avoid.

Observation before action — slowing down to truly see values, edges, and relationships before placing paint.

Responding instead of forcing — adjusting decisions based on what the paper and pigment are doing in the moment.

Patience as a skill — developing restraint and timing rather than rushing toward finished results.

Letting go of perfection — focusing on clarity and honesty instead of overworking a painting.

Teaching through fundamentals — why strong basics outlast trends, styles, and shortcuts.

Long-term growth — building a sustainable watercolor practice rooted in understanding rather than quick wins.

Materials & Approach Mentioned in the Episode

• Watercolor as a responsive, transparent medium
• Emphasis on paper behavior and surface awareness
• Value control and edge handling
• Minimal forcing and overcorrection
• Thoughtful pacing throughout the painting process