About Amanda Clarke-Peterson
Artist, author, and educator. I build simple, sturdy pathways into watercolor—so curiosity turns into confidence.
I’m Amanda—the hands and heart behind Mandakyns. I teach watercolor the way I learned it: step by step, with honest materials, clear demos, and room to play. My work blends craft and curiosity—books, workshops, and tools that make learning feel inviting rather than intimidating.
What is Mandakyns?
Mandakyns is a shared name and a shared story—a blend of my name, Amanda, and my daughter Kyndra’s. It carries our bond into everything I make. The word also nods to old English mandekin—“little figure”—a whisper of craft, small makings, and stories told through the work of the hands.
I began in 2013 with small handcrafted goods and have since grown Mandakyns into a studio for watercolor education and mixed-media exploration. Today, you’ll find interactive books, classes, and practical tools designed to help you paint with ease.
Philosophy
Good painting isn’t magic—it’s materials, attention, and repeatable steps. Learn how paper behaves, how pigment blooms, how timing changes an edge, and everything opens up. I teach from structure, encourage play, and celebrate the imperfect middle where most of the learning lives.
Influences
Botanical forms, printmaking sensibilities, and the discipline of drawing. I love tidy process notes as much as messy sketchbooks—the work behind the work.
What energizes me
Quiet subjects, honest light, the surprise inside a wash. Helping beginners find a foothold. Building tools that make learning feel welcoming. Watching confidence grow remains my favorite success.
Roots & community
I’m based in South Carolina and active with local arts communities including CAVA and the Southern Arts Society. I value accessible, no-gatekeeping instruction and the friendships that form around shared practice.
Short bio
Amanda Clarke-Peterson is an artist, educator, and founder of Mandakyns and Makyn Press. A self-taught watercolorist turned instructor, she creates multimedia learning tools that bridge traditional technique with modern, video-rich guidance. Her interactive book, Comprehensive Watercolor, supports beginners and hobbyists with clear structure and 200+ linked demos.
Milestones
- 2013 — Founded Mandakyns; honored as Woman of the Year by the National Association of Professional Women.
- 2018 — Built Makyn.me to support artists and crafters online; later sunset as my studio focus evolved.
- Today — Running Mandakyns and Makyn Press; publishing tools and teaching watercolor through books and workshops.
What I make
- Interactive, technique-driven books and visual learning tools
- Workshops and community classes for all levels
- Original art, prints, and practical studio resources
- Handcrafted personal care products
Next steps
Get the Book
See Workshops
Visit Makyn Press