EP #24 – Keiko Tanabe | Impressionism, Finding Your Style & Becoming a Professional Artist
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In Episode 24 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed watercolor artist Keiko Tanabe for an honest and insightful conversation about art, growth, and the mindset required to become a professional artist.
From her early life in Kyoto, Japan, to building a global career in watercolor, Keiko shares her journey with complete transparency — including the risks, struggles, and persistence that shaped her path.
This episode is not just about watercolor techniques. It’s about how to think, evolve, and stay consistent as an artist.
About Keiko Tanabe
Keiko Tanabe is an internationally recognized watercolor artist known for her expressive, impressionistic style. Her work captures light, atmosphere, and emotion through simplified yet powerful compositions.
Born in Kyoto, Japan, she later moved to the United States for higher education and initially pursued a career outside the art world. However, her passion for painting never faded, eventually leading her to become a full-time artist.
Today, she teaches workshops worldwide and inspires artists across all levels.Her Journey: From Stability to Uncertainty
Keiko’s journey into art wasn’t linear.
As a child, she loved drawing and even received recognition for her artistic talent. But like many, she stepped away from art to focus on academics and a professional career.
After moving to the United States, she worked in a completely different field. Yet over time, the desire to paint kept growing stronger.
Eventually, she made a bold decision — leaving a stable job to pursue watercolor full-time, without knowing how it would work out.
That leap of faith became the foundation of her career.
Building an Art Career from Scratch
Starting without an art degree or connections, Keiko had to figure everything out on her own.
She began sharing her work online during the early days of the internet, posting paintings consistently and gradually building an audience.
Through daily practice, exhibitions, and persistence, she started gaining collectors, recognition, and opportunities.
Her journey shows that small, consistent steps can lead to long-term success.
Understanding Values, Light & Composition
A major part of Keiko’s approach is simplifying complex scenes.
Instead of copying everything exactly as it appears, she focuses on:
- Light and shadow (values)
- Strong composition
- Emotional impact
She often changes elements in a scene — adjusting light, simplifying shapes, and redesigning compositions — to create a stronger painting.
For her, painting is not about accuracy, but about expression.
Process: Plein Air & Studio Work
Keiko frequently paints outdoors (plein air), which helps her:
- Improve speed and decision-making
- Observe real light and atmosphere
- Capture natural mood and energy
In the studio, she combines sketches, memory, and references to create finished works.
This balance between observation and interpretation is key to her process.
Materials & Tools
- Paper: Arches, Saunders Waterford
- Brushes: Escoda (round brushes, mostly synthetic)
- Palette: Limited colors (12–14), strong mixing approach
- Style: Fast, expressive, and focused on light
Explore Keiko Tanabe
Website & Workshops:
https://www.ktanabefineart.com/workshops
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/keikotanabewatercolor/
Watch / Listen
Available on:
YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts
Final Thoughts
This episode is a reminder that becoming an artist is not about shortcuts or overnight success.
It’s about patience, persistence, and staying true to your vision — even when the path is uncertain.
Join the Conversation
What is your biggest challenge in watercolor right now?
Share your thoughts in the comments.