How to do a value study

Adding a fence to a painting can lead the viewer’s eye into the painting, adding depth and perspective.  It can add structure and balance, breaking up space and providing a focal point for other elements. Painting challenge:  Fences Include the hashtag #fences in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond Facebook group post. Deadline November 22,…

Honoring November 11:  Remembrance Day, Armistice Day, and Veteran’s Day The significance of poppies stems from the famous war poem: “In Flanders Fields,” by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, which describes the poppies growing amidst the graves of soldiers in World War I.  Poppies were the first flowers to grow in the devastated battlefields of Europe.…

Trains are more than just modes of transportation.  They symbolize adventure, nostalgia, and the journey of life. Whether it’s the sleek lines of modern trains, the commuter train/subway, or the rustic charm of an old steam engine, trains offer endless inspiration. Painting challenge:  Trains Include the hashtag #trains in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond…

Boo!  It is time to paint all things Halloween:   jack-o-lanterns, haunted houses, candy corn, ghosts, witches, creepy trees, and other ghoulish things! Painting challenge:  Halloween Include the hashtag #halloween2024 in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond Facebook group post. Deadline November 1, 2024 , 11:59 pm ET     Here are the details: Share a Halloween…

A group of jellyfish is called a “smack.”   Did you know that?  I did not. Let’s paint jellyfish this week with their interesting shapes and colors, showing the graceful movement of their tentacles. Painting challenge:  Jellyfish Include the hashtag #jellyfish in your Watercolor – Beginners and Beyond Facebook group post. Deadline October 25, 2024 ,…

Wake up your inner child this week as we take a trip down memory lane, revisiting the simple joys of childhood art.  Remember those carefree days when every doodle made us smile?  This is your chance to relive that excitement and creativity!  Stick figures may be simple, but they carry the charm of pure imagination. …