The Setup
Relax in comfortable seating as our artist crafts your 5-minute watercolor portrait, while our assistant ensures a smooth and engaging process. Watch as your portrait comes to life, displayed in real-time on a large television for all to appreciate. This unique setup not only offers a personalized keepsake but also fosters a lively and interactive atmosphere, making it a perfect addition to any event.
Meet the Team
At Watercolor Connections, we believe in delivering a seamless and engaging portrait experience. Our setup includes a dedicated artist and an assistant working together to ensure efficiency and personalized attention. While the artist focuses on creating your portrait, the assistant manages the line, addresses inquiries, and handles post-painting processes like framing or sealing. This collaborative approach ensures minimal wait times and enhances the overall experience for every guest.
Founder & Artist
Victoria Bayagich
Victoria Bayagich is a Detroit-based artist and founder of Watercolor Connections, a live portrait painting experience that integrates technology to engage audiences. Since earning her BFA from the College for Creative Studies in 2015, she has collaborated with organizations like Motor City Street Dance Academy and is currently fundraising for their upcoming Residency Program, which aims to host out-of-town dancers, music makers, and artists in Detroit for workshops, classes, exhibitions, and performances.
Customer Experience Coordinator
Kaylyn Sanders
Kaylyn, known as Kay Bae, is a Detroit emcee, performance artist, and social worker with over a decade of experience in various roles, including mental health therapist, care manager, and event planner. A graduate of the University of Michigan Ann Arbor, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Social Work, both with a focus on community and social systems. Passionate about art and community, Kay curates events like the Sidewalk Talks series, providing platforms for local artists to showcase their talents. She believes in the unifying and healing power of art, striving to create spaces in Detroit that encourage young adults to embrace their artistic talents.
Customer Experience Coordinator
Aurora Abolio
Aurora is the dedicated assistant for Watercolor Connections, collaborating closely with Victoria to deliver seamless art experiences at every event. She ensures efficient operations, from managing registrations to ensuring participants receive their completed portraits.
In addition to her role at Watercolor Connections, Aurora is a skilled graphic designer and a breaking instructor at Motor City Street Dance Academy. Her passion for creativity extends to digital art and fiber artwork, where she constantly seeks new ways to innovate and express herself.
Artist
Darius Baber
Darius Baber is an artist who captures the essence of their subjects through expressive portraiture, using vibrant colors and dynamic compositions. With a recent shift towards impressionistic styles, Darius explores themes of identity, intimacy, and the human condition. Their work includes murals and public art, most notably the “On My Mama’s Side” piece, a large-scale drum sculpture wrapped in Kente cloth, exploring African ancestry and American identity.
How it Works
Eva S — Detroit MI
Victoria and her crew did an amazing job at our baby shower! Our guests were floored with her talents and expressed how much they loved the ability to take their portraits home right away. Her set-up and personality allowed our guest to feel "at home" while they watched her creating their portraits. I highly recommend booking this service for your events! Fantastic job!!