PAINTING AND DRAWING 101

Every painting is a journey and it begins here, your research.
Picture taking, sketches, and finally your painting.
- Dale L Popovich IWS

Before starting to painting, several key steps must be considered. Here's a reminder of general principles in painting or drawing.

There is more to starting a painting than picking up the brush. You must plan - 75% of your work is in the planning. Here are the steps to follow:

• Adjust the composition by creating 3 to 5 sketches and simplify subject matter.
• Do several value sketches of the subject matter. Study the light and dark pattern.
• Create an accurate drawing. Make sure your perspective is spot on, proportions look good and composition works.
• Don't rush! Spending time will produce rewarding results.

Rely on your sketch to paint from and put your photo 5-6 feet away from you. This helps you simplify the patterns of light and dark along with the details. Look at the photo only occasionally.  Now that you feel comfortable with your value/comprehensive sketches you can proceed to your painting. Here is the procedure for transparent watercolor:

1. Always paint from background foreground.
2. Large areas to small.
3. Values - light to dark.
4. Intense color to grayed.

Here's a few final thoughts to keep in mind. Always put out fresh color. Dried pigment is considered dead pigment and can only be used to tint. Always put out fresh to get the fluid intensity of the brushstroke. While going through your painting process get up off your seat, step back, take a break and look at what you have accomplished so far. Decide at that point what needs to be done. DO NOT paint from start to finish with your nose on the paper. You are asking for problems.

Following these steps will create a more satisfying experience and stronger painting.