Friday, May 13, 2011

First watercolors

Here's my confession: I've painted and drawn and printed and sculpted, but I've never been able to do watercolor. It has been a bit of an issue lately, because my students really want to do it, but I've been dragging my feet for lack of knowledge. Recently, I found a book called Watercolor Painting for Dummies by Colette Pitcher, and look! Here are my first two projects from it. Ms. Pitcher gives clear and useful exercises to understand how to handle this medium, and does it with a sense of humor and good fun. And, surprise! The color theory is really the same as in other mediums. I don't know why that surprises me; it makes perfect sense. These two aren't great by any stretch, but they give me hope that I can figure this thing out.

The little landscape is actually just a little sketch I've been thinking about. This is (sort of) a picture of my wedding day. Just my luck, it was a typical Michigan winter ice storm that day, and I remember seeing all the old aunts creeping gingerly down the icy driveway, trying to keep their balance, arms full of packages. Today's challenge for IF is safari, which is a long journey over land (Truly. I looked it up.). It was a journey down the driveway for them, and a long journey since then for me as well. So, please think of this little sketch as a Michigan "safari". I'm just not sure what I was hunting for, even now.

9 comments:

Indigene said...

Wow, I had this same dilemma when I had to teach a class on acrylics a couple of years ago! :) It is indeed a safari. Great take on the prompt this week! With your talent, I'm sure you will be a master in no time! Have a great weekend! :)

Lynette said...

Thanks, Indigene. I'm usually a dark to light painter, and that has been the whole trouble for me with watercolor. I only have to get the techniques down so that I can show my students. It is amazing what they can do with only a little direction! You have a great weekend, too.

Mindful Drawing said...

If these are your first water colours this year...rejoice thinking about what will follow.
Paula

Unknown said...

Your apple looks nice and juicy! Can hardly believe that's your first wc.
Love your sketch too, I can feel the mood!

Pam Tucker said...

Your watercolor is wonderful! If that's your first try, you will have no problem with it. Wow! Beautiful colors. :)

Your sketch definitely has the safari feel to it. I loved your interpretation of the prompt.

Chibi Janine said...

The apple is lovely. I am sure you will master the technique soon. Beautiful

Vilt og vakkert said...

Heisann!
You made it.... the apple is wonderful.
We are in same business - but I am common with watercolors ... ;:OD)
Have a nice weekend!

Lynette said...

Thank you all for your words of encouragement. You are all so good at watercolor! I hope I improve!

Unknown said...

oh this is beautiful!!!! love your watercolour pieces...these are super...I can only imagine what you will create as you go!!!