Botanical workshop at Bynd Artisan.
Thank you, everyone, for your incredible support.
As we approach the conclusion of our watercolor botanical workshop at Bynd Artisan, I reflect on the journey that began two years ago. Over this period, I've gained profound insights into the realms of art, commerce, and life. Surprisingly, the genesis of this workshop can be traced back to an error made during our Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign—a mistake that ultimately led to a chapter worth sharing, despite the typical reluctance to acknowledge missteps in business.
Last few sessions and we worked on Color temperature, color mixing and color theory.
n the face of unexpected challenges, the best solutions and opportunities often emerge. Accidental mistakes and chance encounters can unveil unique competitive advantages, as exemplified by iconic products like 3M's sticky pad and the Sony PlayStation.
Background story:
Our Indiegogo campaign saw a procurement mishap; we inadvertently ordered hot press instead of cold press paper. Unwilling to disclose this error to our backers, we swiftly imported a new batch of paper from Italy. Despite a minor delay, we fulfilled all orders. Faced with surplus hot press paper, the idea for a botanical workshop took root. I embraced the challenge of creating teaching materials and launching the class, initially uncertain of its longevity.
This was the entire stash of hot press paper from Fabriano.
However, thanks to growing awareness, particularly propelled by celebrity blogger Yina Goh, Evonne Ng, and their blogger friends, the workshop flourished. A feature in Time Out magazine further elevated its profile, introducing me to numerous distinguished guests.
Celebrity Bloggers and their friends: Yina, Evonne, Tricia, Min, Reenie, Jess, Ying and Jeneen
Special thanks to Yina, Evonne and their friends for their support.
Key Learnings from the Workshops:
1 ) Proactive Sales Efforts:
A good workshop doesn't sell itself; witnessing Bynd Artisan's sales team tirelessly engage potential customers highlighted the importance of proactive outreach and education.
I don't know how he does it. But he is always breaking the ice and striking conversation with customers even when some can be so unfriendly. Sales team matter a lot and the hustle is real.
2) Experience Trumps Skills:
The value of accomplishing something new within a few hours often surpasses the significance of acquiring specific skills. Adjusting the workshop content accordingly became crucial.
3) Network Building:
Recognizing the importance of networking, I aim to integrate more opportunities for participants to connect with one another in future workshops.
4) Unforeseen Opportunities:
The workshops not only showcased my botanical painting skills but also attracted commission work opportunities, highlighting the unexpected paths creativity can lead us down.
A commission work painted for a local Bank.
5) Appreciation for Fresh Flowers:
Despite initial skepticism about the value of buying flowers, painting real flowers revealed their unique qualities and emphasized the importance of appreciating life's fragility and beauty.
A lot more work to prepare real flowers but I think its worth it.
Mr Chong, master craftman at Bynd Artisan attended our workshop as well :)
Speaking of which, I absolutely love this article written by Alisha Gorder on NYTimes Modern Love:
https://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/15/fashion/one-bouquet-of-fleeting-beauty-please.html
“Why do we send flowers? To make up for what is intangible? Those feelings we can’t hold in our hands and present as a gift to our loved ones? And why is it that the placeholders we choose — the dozen red roses, the fragrant white lilies, the long-stemmed French tulips — are so fleeting? Hold on to them for too long and you end up with a mess of petals, pollen, and foul-smelling water.” – Alisha Gorder
Some earlier batches where the practise was a little tougher.
As we bid farewell to this chapter, I extend heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at Bynd Artisan—Winnie, James, Kenny, Donavan, Grace, Mr. Chong, Corinne, Brandon, and more—for your years of trust, support, and collaboration.
While this workshop concludes, I look forward to establishing a new sketching experience in another city.
Farewell, for now.