The other day I went to the library with the express purpose of getting some “how to” books on watercolor. I haven’t painted in a long, long time, and like anything neglected, a bit of work is necessary. Well, really, a lot of work is necessary!
The urge to paint came about when I finished my Lopi-style sweater a few weeks ago. This meant looking for supplies, cleaning up the studio, and sorting things out. The focus on photography these last few years has helped me to see contrast as I have never seen it before, but it doesn’t mean I can paint any better than before. However, the fact that I needed to learn photography, not just take snapshots, has pushed into my tiny brain the fact that luck does not replace forethought. Hence, the trip to the library.
As anyone who looks at art books – at “how to” books in any subject – there are far too many to choose from. Most cover the same basics. Watercoloring books are no exception. The key is to find books that appeal to you. I found a lot to look at, took home six, and have skimmed through all of them. The one I settled on is called The Watercolor Painting Book, by Wendon Blake, with paintings by Claude Croney.
A “how to” book needs to be a “show how” book. Detailed descriptions and pictures are really important. This one does it quite well. There are studies – demonstrations – in both black and white and color. For someone wanting to begin at the beginning, but with a bit of knowledge, this really is a good book. So, I plunged in this afternoon – my reward for totally cleaning up the studio, throwing out old things, and re-arranging the book shelves to accommodate my painting supplies. (I have to be organized whenever I embark on something new – or newish.)
This, then, is the study for the flat wash. Here, dry layers are built up, one on another, as can be seen in this picture of the study. Below are all mine, which are absolutely hideous, but did teach me a bit about contrast and painting. Or remind me of it. Or something.
I have 3 flat brushes that I used here. None feel comfortable, but they were worth using. One is an inch wide, and then they each decrease by half. Awkward! The point, though, is to just do it. That is how we learn. I know I will work more on the flat wash this week, and use the flat brushes. It won’t be pretty – but it will be a good experience!
Ink, Yarn & Beer 