I am in awe with artwork that is inspired by Hindu Deities. The meanings behind each give way to so many possibilities artistically. So I have decided that I am going to paint them. Some will be watercolor, some acrylic and some oil. I did my first last night.. Krishna. I think I am getting better at watercolors and I am using a medium for my blending now, which has made a remarkable difference I think.
Practice makes perfect!
Thanks for the comments Sam and advice on technique..I appreciate it! Regarding pigment I agree..I think that is why I like oil and acrylic more because I love bright and vibrant ..solid color work. I will try and ease up a bit ;P
You might want to try guache instead of water color then. You can get the vibrancy in WC but it takes time to build it up. If you go to a top of the line art store you will find more colors in the WC range (including powders and solids). If you really want a challenge mix your own.
I would say start with technique. Forget images. Work on the pigments and the range you can get and what each brush can do. A pointed vs. flat vs. fan brush. Learn the range of the pigments- what they look like at full strength and then then dilute with just the brush and water. A little pigment goes a long way.
If you want a treat - try to find an exhibition of chinese watercolors. You will see wonderful brush work and handling of the medium. Even when they are working in just black - amazing.
Paper is also important but wait until you get the techniques down (the good ones are expensive- really expensive).
***************
"Ever tried, ever failed, no matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail Better." - Samuel Beckett
Well I have to look into all of the above. Ive heard canvas matters but some people say no if you know the technique it doesn't matter. I want to find a local class if possible because its something I really enjoy!
WC done on paper, so it can matter. You are using water to dilute your inks in your cups &/or on the paper itself. The average stock can only take so much abuse before it starts to weaken and give. The really good sheets are thick and luxurious. Also there are some made from wood pulp and some made from rag. 1st is technique and pigments, then you can play with the paper.
Are you near any art colleges? Also if there is a decent size chinese community near by, see if they have a watercolor school.
***************
"Ever tried, ever failed, no matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail Better." - Samuel Beckett
What about a large chinese community?
***************
"Ever tried, ever failed, no matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail Better." - Samuel Beckett
Beautiful! I love the orange, flowing fabric. It reminds me of one of my favorite paintings, Flaming June. I'd like to see more paintings you do.
very pretty! wow!
~~~~~
The man who speaks to you of sacrifice, speaks of slaves and masters. And intends to be the master.
Nice work Betty. Your blending is getting better. In WC you might want to use less pigment you can add more water in your cup to dilute the pigment and then a damp brush to further dilute on the paper. In WC you can always add but subtracting is nearly impossible.
The blues and greens in the background are beautiful and give an other worldliness to it.
The piece emits a nice feeling.
***************
"Ever tried, ever failed, no matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail Better." - Samuel Beckett