Composing Objects for Watercolor Painting

Advanced Drawing and Painting

This still-life is centered, related by subject, has a variety of textures,
and the placement of colors create depth.

A still-life is a grouping of inanimate (not moving or living) objects, arranged as a subject or reference for a work of art. Now that you are getting comfortable with watercolor paints it is time to create a more complex painting, like a still-life or a painting of something more intricate than a shell. The most important preparation you can do is find objects you are interested in painting.  They may have sentimental meaning or they may be a beautiful (or off putting) object you think would be a challenge to paint.  You need to be invested in what you are painting so choose wisely.  There are many ways to compose your objects.  You can arrange them in a very balanced and symmetrical way or not.  You may want to focus on one section of a still-life.  Zooming in on one area can make for an intriguing painting.  Create a "home" for your objects, maybe you would like to arrange them in a shoe box or you might need a backdrop cloth on a wall.  Do you need an artificial light source?  It takes some effort and thought when setting up a still-life. Be patient and enjoy the process.

Arranging Objects for a Still-Life

Rule of "Thirds" and Tips on Composition Doc.

Sea Shell Paintings in Progress

Advanced Drawing and Painting

Students are taking their time studying the colors of their shells and how light is affecting the way the shell looks.  There are a variety of textures and colors that are challenging to represent using watercolor paint.  Check out their shells in progress...

Adrian

Laurel

Brittaney

Creative Text & Shapes

Designing for the Web

Designed by Tim O.  

In this lesson you will add a shape and then text to your color portraits. Pay attention to the negative space in your work to find a place where you can add these elements.   We are trying to create depth and interest in our piece. The "f/x" tool will help you design and personalize your text.  See the full description of the lesson below.

 Creative Text & Shape Lesson

A Watercolor Study of Shells

Advanced Drawing and Painting

Observe how the artist keeps the values light and only creates darker colors where the light is absent or not as strong. In order to create a drawing or painting that shows the depth of any object you must pay attention to the way the light affects what you are representing.  As you continue to work in watercolors be aware of the values of colors on your shell and around your shell.  Look for the places where there is a lot of
contrast and where the value changes are subtle.

Take a look at some stunning watercolor paintings HERE

Watercolor Study Lesson

James R. Riccio on exhibit in Chester

 Advanced Drawing and Painting

 After having a conversation with painter James Riccio I am reminded how difficult it is to paint with watercolors.   Years ago I studied watercolor painting with John Falato at Paier College of Art.  It was shockingly hard to paint with watercolors after having some experience painting with oils.  I found myself putting dark values on the paper and not being able to correct my mistake, once it was on the paper it was there for good.  Unlike oils or acrylics you cannot scrape your paint off or paint over an obvious mistake. As our class continues on the path of learning about watercolors, realize that it does take a lot of patience and planning when creating a watercolor painting. 

  Watercolor Painting tips from John Falato  

  James R. Riccio Exhibit Information



  

Anne Kubitsky is "Looking for Good"!

Creative Opportunities

Make a postcard size collage, painting, drawing and/or write about what you are grateful for on a postcard and send it to the "Looking for Good Project".  I went to the art opening in New London last week and saw some BHS Art Club member's postcards on exhibit.  Create one of your own!


Illustration by Anne Kubitsky

Study of Shells

Advanced Drawing and Painting

Clare H. 

Wonderful beginning of the semester!  Our class critique of student sketches of shells was very productive.  Most students thought they needed to show more value changes and pay closer attention to cast shadows.  I am very impressed by the first drawings in their sketchbook.

 View more studies of shells here

Intro to Watercolor

student sketchbook

Advanced Drawing and Painting

Watercolors are a tricky to master. You need some patience and some practice.  It is always good to begin with the basics...What are the names of the colors?  What are the characteristics of watercolor paper? How does the amount of water you use change the pigment? This intro lesson will help you become acquainted with watercolors.

Intro to Watercolor Lesson