Friday, August 06, 2010

Review Of Watercolor Painting Basic Technique

By Tom Tripp

Watercolor painting basic technique is a combination of knowledge and practice. Some of the methods used by artists include flat washes, glazing and wet in wet painting. Other methods are referred to as dry brushing, lifting off color and dropping in color. By using these methods, you can improve your own paintings.

The first method, the fundamental way the watercolors are created, is called a dry wash. The paper is dampened and enough pigment is applied to fill the area. Then, it dries completely. Students are often cautioned about applying more paint to washes that are not completely dried.

Glazing is another method for applying pigment. Almost transparent layers are spread over dried washes. This can increase the color saturation or apply a color to counterpoint the wash.

Wet in wet refers to painting on wet paper with a large brush. This method is used to create backgrounds and can be used, carefully, over dry washes. Dry brushing is the reverse. Dry pigment is loaded onto the brush and applied to dry paper. This creates stark lines that draw the attention of the viewer.

If paint is removed from the picture, it is called lifting off. Water dissolves the paint and it is gently soaked up with a tissue. This creates a more faded color in a particular area. Another method to apply paint is named dropping in color. This way a blob of pigment is allowed to flow freely on very wet paper and can create new color combination for the painting.

Composition and color balancing are other areas to study when learning watercolor painting basic techniques. Sometimes artists may sketch out their painting before beginning, to give themselves a rough idea of the lay out. If you wish to learn more consider taking an art class. The Internet also offers a variety of websites where you can learn more. - 2361

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