Advancing with Watercolor: "Still Life" - Lost and Found Edges

THE PROJECT

Today we extend or use of patterns through lost and found edges when we paint Peonies in a Vase. The exercise we practiced in the previous lesson has shown us a way to look at complexity as a patterns of repeated shapes. Once we perceive these patterns in our subject we can think of an effective way to render them

This week we will focus on lost and found edges to create the pattern and give our subjects the luxurious qualities of the Peony

THE DRILL

In the drill we will look at patterns done with dry-brush and with wet technique. After practicing the exercise we can approach our painting with more spontaneity…

The repeated shapes of the petals of the Peony Flower are the pattern and the way they circle the center helps to create are realistic representation. Working first in a single color, and the practicing with a combination of colors helps to give us confidence in the larger painting.

THE DESIGN

The photo is mine and in truth it does give a very good representation of the bouquet of Peonies - The position of the bouquet is a little close , yet it is Nicole placed off center. There is a nice balance achieved through bouquet and vase - and cast shadows. In any case I hope you will look for a good composition for your still life this week

Some things to consider

1 - avoid the exact middle of the paper staggering objects off center produces tension which is healthy for composition

2 over lap objects and avoid leaving equal distances between objects. Overlapping immediately suggests depth - this helps our painting.

3 - consider a small area you focal area - balance the periphery against this and save you highest contrast for this area

THE TECHNIQUE

When we practiced our pine trees - 3 lessons ago - we practice lost and found edges. These types of edges create atmosphere and can create a visual poetry unique to watercolor. They are also soooo difficult.

We will use the lost and found edges to creat the flowers, vase and background - and we can also adjust the painting and loose some edges this way to

Isn’t watercolor wonderful??

THE CHLLENGE

Part of the challenge in this technique is to let go and let the painting paint itself. Such a simple idea but we get in the way. If you find yourself correcting and adjusting - step away, have a cup of tea and return when you feel ready.