Artist Journal
The act of writing down thoughts and observations helps the artist to organize, focus and visualize all the stimuli nature presents. The simple act of "jotting down" an idea gives it a creative life of its own. I offer these observations as a way of helping us connect and begin a meaningful dialogue....
"Don't bother me, I can't cope." is one of my favorite quotes. There are times I just need to internally "shutdown" so I can process everything my senses have gathered in. It's like casting out a net and then taking the time to sort out the catch. Hopefully, there's an artistic idea worth keeping for the future .
Work begets more work.
Take all your assorted, small brushes (2, 4, etc.) and cut them up into neat, little logs then place in a metal pail, douse with lighter fluid, ignite with a match and cook a hotdog. After the meal, return to your watercolor painting and learn to use a 1 inch brush.
Pablo Picasso said, "Making Art is damn hard work."
Working in watercolor demands forethought and preplanning. Especially the need to do thumbnail sketches. Learn to resolve design issues before you paint. John Pike said it best, "Plan like a turtle and paint like a rabbit."
"Paint the suggestion not the fact." This portrait study illustrates how direct brush application and immediate use of color can affect the overall appearance of a painting. Giving it a fresh and dramatic look.
"Plain Jane"
Watercolor
7 x 10