Last week I was asked to demonstrate my watercolor painting technique for the Northeast Wisconsin Watercolor Society. I always have fun using a spray bottle with water to prep and guide the paints for an initial underpainting, and always need to remind myself to trust what happens! I believe in responding to paint rather than trying to control it.
I enjoy working large, it allows the paint to move and drip and leave interesting water marks, the reason I used a full sheet of Arches 140 lb. cold press paper. I didn’t get as far along with the demo painting as I would have liked because there was talking, explaining, sharing of information … and I hope I inspired some of the members.
Once I was home I could focus on layering more color, creating greater depth and detail. I added many more details, focusing on the bonsai growing along the side of the mountains. I painted my favorite subject – mountains – and my favorite trees – bonsai, and found the process meditative. I was so pleased with the end result that I decided to go to a custom frame shop! I picked a wood frame with gold and rust coloring and think it will pair perfectly. As a rule, I try not to spend a lot of money on framing because most of my paintings are for sale and patrons may have their own idea regarding the frame, but this piece is special to me.
