Watercolors

 

 

 

Something new for this colored pencil artist....watercolors.  I haven't had much success with a paintbrush because I really like how I can control a piece of artwork with pencil.  I am trying to "paint outside the box" and try something different.  You know, broaden my horizons.  Well, the horizon on this piece isn't exactly how I wanted it to look.  Nor the sky and the hills.  As I was complaining about the outcome of my painting, a student of mine reminded me that I am always telling them, "We are our own worst critique."  So, self-critiquing aside, I'll take it as a learning experience.  For those of you who like my colored pencil and graphite work, not to worry.  I'll keep working with colored pencil and graphite too. 

 

An interesting tip I learned from the instructor is that you can take a piece of foamboard and put gesso on both sides to prevent warping.  Mount your watercolor paper to the foamboard and use it to complete your painting.  If you leave the gesso off, the foamboard will warp from the water.  Using foamboard is a lightweight solution to using a heavier piece of wood or other surface.