Deb Ward, GWS, OWS, PWS, WSI - WATERCOLOR/WATER MEDIA - My passion is teaching adult “beginners”. Weekly classes in my home; workshops; classes for Cincinnati Recreation Commission. My work is nationally recognized and published - see “Featured” on my sidebar. I’m a Signature Member of Georgia, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Indiana state Watercolor Societies, Cincinnati Art Club, past-President of Greater Cincinnati Watercolor Society. Contact info below under “Class Information”

Monday, February 15, 2010

WHITE PEONY 3

Throughout my background, I have used Nick Simmons’s technique of spraying off some of the paint just before it dries. This is one of those techniques that depends on timing (and luck!). I am pleased with how it worked in some areas, not in others. But since I used several layers, it wasn’t a problem – if I didn’t like it the first time, there were a couple more chances to get it right.



To introduce the background into the flower (to avoid that pasted on look) I used another of Nick’s techniques – the “sewing machine stitch”!!! I have to laugh at that one – it’s something I’m sure we have all done many times – I call it a broken line or running line!














I needed to eliminate what a friend said was a “pinwheel” look in the center of the flower. I did that by adding some cobalt and French ultramarine on the petals above and to the right of the center.


Additionally, since I had gotten some spots onto the flower during the spraying off process, I intentionally splattered a few edges and the background to tie it all together. (Also, a little sewing machine stitch).
Well, now it’s time to let it sit again and evaluate.

4 comments:

Christiane Kingsley said...

Deb,
It is very nice to see how you have incorporated those various techniques so successfully in this painting. I have Nick's video, but did not realize until now that his batik-look technique on the background could be done in layers...It makes sense!

Your peony is looking great.

Arti said...

Looks great to me ..can't wait to see the finished painting!The techniques of Nicholas are really intigruing..the way he sprays and splatters...gets great results!

debwardart said...

Arti and Christiane - This may be a mess, but I did have fun!

Nancy Van Blaricom said...

Nice of you to share your tips. Its turning out great. I'm so anxious. Nice friend to give you honest criticism (sp)... the pinwheel thing. Love those honest friends.