September 30th
I've been receiving questions about my process and will try to answer some here. When I work the many details of the painting, I am using #4 and #6 rounds. These sizes make it easier to paint the many little rocks that sit between the boulders. For larger areas I use #8 or #10. When laying down the early washes for some areas I use those beautiful mop brushes.

Another question I've been asked is why I work to 'finished detail' as I go along. The subjects that I often choose to paint are very complex. As I face my work, it's easy to become overwhelmed by so much detail. I approach it as a series of small problems to be solved, one tiny spot after another. Tiny problems are not so complex. before I know it the painting is complete. This is how I work even if I am doing plein air drawing or painting. One little area at a time, built upon another.

September 28,2016
Progress always slows down when family comes first.

September 24
Yesterday was spent drawing all the minute details of my next painting, onto the heavy watercolor paper. This is the time that is important to the success of the painting. Since the white of the paper is the white of the painting, I need to make sure that I know where they are before painting. I use a technique called 'negative painting' to keep them. It's simply painting around the white ares. There are ways to block them out, paint over, then remove the tape or maskit, however these take time and sometimes leave a residue on the paper. I love the challenge of negative painting. 

Since this is another water scene, there are a lot of areas that will remain white here. I hope you check back regularly to see the progress.

Have a colorful day!
Sandy

ROCKY SHORE, watercolor 18" x 24"

 

Progress on Rocky Shore has been slow. There are so many things that get in the way of studio time!

Progress on Rocky Shore

This painting is from the rocky shores of Lake Huron, along the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Since my first trip there I have been awed by these giant boulders dancing along the edge of the water. This is but one of many waterscapes that I've done over the past six years. There is such a wealth of beauty, yet waiting to be translated into art.

Life is never dull!

Progress #2 and #3, Thursday, noon.

Wednesday:
I've started a new painting today, of the rocky shoreline of Lake Huron.
Last week I was able to enjoy the beauty along the Straits of Mackinac, from the upper peninsula of Michigan. Now I want to bring that beauty into a new existence as a watercolor, filled with the color, light, and the awe I experienced there.
Here is progress #1

Colorfully,
Sandy

September 5, 2016
The rocky shoreline of Lake Huron, seen from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The air was sweetly scented with the smell of pines and cedars! The breezes refreshingly cool. The water was crystal clear. There was no better place to spend the day of my 71st birthday!