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Author: Larry_Seiler, Contributing Editor
 | It was one of the first days that spring was working its way back into the northwoods, and I had to get out. About 30 minutes from my home, I packed up my French easel, panels and oils to search for a plein air, and arrived at a wonderful display of forces at work. Ice breaking up, water bursting forth, sunlight glistening. Ah yes, what a delight it was. I took several digital pictures, and later chose this one to experiment and paint a watercolor lesson from.
I was attracted to the strong verticals, and the pattern of light breaking thru at diagonals to the water. What also caught my eye was the purity of the color blue reflected upon the snow in the shadows. |
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| My first order, was to lightly draw out the composition, deciding on what to include, and more importantly what would be left out. Unnecessary details war against the best of intentions, detracting from those pure essential elements that capture the spirit of the scene. My other purpose here, is to plan what areas will be painted with a masking solution, already anticipating in advance the contrasts of light and dark that will add depth and the illusion of three dimension to my work. |
| I do not have a great deal invested in watercolor supplies, using them more myself as an oil and acrylic painter would...that is small studies, sketches, or just plain thinking out loud! I won't deny that I have fun working with watercolors, but as yet...my passion for oils and acrylics has kept me from pursuing watercolors as my main medium of choice. Here you see my Cotman Field Kit; a bottle of simple masking fluid; a plastic container for holding brushes; a palette and pencil. In addition, I sometimes carry extra tube colors, but not as a rule. As a rule...I usually go for convenience! |  |
 | This little kit really is convenient, like Agent 007 James Bond having his aesthetic moment! Water is stored in the little plastic flask that doubles as a palette surface, and poured into the lid for the resevoir. Note the small little sponge that stores above the paints. I find, however, the small breakdown aluminum brush not even serious enough to consider using, but it is fun showing it off to others. And, why not... this little stinker cost me about $55!!! |
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| This is admittedly an odd image here, which I have allowed the odd angle to capture light so you can see (by means of reflection), how the mask is sitting on the paper's surface. I'm sure most readers are aware of masking's purpose, but will explain for those new to watercolors. It is an ammonia based fluid which dries rapidly to a rubbery feel, and repels watercolor thus protecting the paper beneath...assuring it to remain white. |
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