Hands up if you use value sketches

We probably all know that we should do a value sketch as part of the important planning period of a painting.  However, how many actually do one, or even better do a number of them to also improve the composition?

If you are wondering why values are important, I refer you to a previous blog that Neal authored:
http://arttutormembers.blogspot.ca/2014/07/why-values-are-important.html

Here are some tips for doing a value sketch and planning the number, shape, proportion, and placement of your lightest and darkest values:

• keep your value sketches small and simple
• draw a box around your value sketch in the proportions of the paper you are going to paint on
• limit the use of outlines - think in terms of areas as opposed to lines
• don't record a lot of information and detail
• use no more than three to four values (lights, mid-tones and darks)
• apply the tone with small rapid circular or sideways movement of the hand if using a pencil
• try reversing values to create new design possibilities
• draw shapes of your objects to simplify the composition

Some people prefer the use of pencil over watercolour for their value sketch. What's your favorite? Mine is watercolour as it helps me determine the painting sequence of objects in addition to the values.

Today's artist find is Liu Yi

His Facebook page is: https://www.facebook.com/ArtofLiuYi/?fref=ts

Have a great week,

Danielle

Paynes Gray - to use or not to use

Most watercolorist will tell you not to use black paint. But what about Paynes Gray?  This colour has a strong blue undertone that is more subtle than Ivory Black.

Similar to black, you will find numerous artist advocating against the use of this colour as they claim it is "flat" or a dead colour.  However, some who encourage mixing your blacks, including famous artists, do support the use of Paynes Gray because it dries several values lighter.

This colour has some uses, such as mixing it with some yellows to create some interesting greens. However, you may have noticed that the Paynes Gray from the various brands do not all look the same.

Some people like to use Paynes Gray for shadows. In this instance, or when you're looking for a darker color, remember to use the complementary colors of the object to get the correct color - instead of reaching for Paynes Gray.

If you do not have the colour on your palette but wish to create an equivalent, mix a combination of Ultramarine Blue, Burnt Umber or Burnt Sienna. You might have to play around with the proportions but you'll get there in the end.

Today's artist find is von Carsten Wieland

Have a great week,
Danielle

p.s. my palette does contain Paynes Gray. What about you?

Storing your watercolours

If you've been painting watercolours for a few years, you probably have accumulated quite a few. You probably have some that you are proud of and want to preserve. After spending hours creating your watercolours, how do you store them to preserve them? Here are a few tips to consider including the fact that light and moisture are the worst environmental hazards:

• when storing paintings on top of the other, use some type of padding in between
• paintings are best stored on a flat surface on an acid free surface (could be paper)
• occasionally take paintings out of storage to give them air which can help to prevent mold and humidity from building-up
• ensure stored paintings are not exposed to direct sunlight
• try to avoid storing your watercolours in the basement as that area is normally humid. It's also good to avoid attics that can be too dry. The temperature and level of humidity should be adequate and consistent.
• store all unframed paintings in a plastic archival bag. Others will tell you to store stack them while matted.
• some artists store them in portfolios to protect them from dust, kids and pets.

Most of the above can also apply when you buy bulk paper.

Today's artist find is Susan Walsh Harper:

Don't you like the girl's pose and the softness of her dress?  I'm in awe when I see such talent.

Happy New Year and have a great week,

Danielle

Happy holidays

Here's to hoping that you had a productive year painting and that we all continue to learn new things in the new year.

This week's artist find is Paul Jackson

Happy New Year
Danielle