In the wintertime I paint almost exclusively in the studio. Here I can paint from drawings or pictures I took as reference during the summer months or use my imagination. Now is the time I can interpret any scenes that interest me while also making note of the words I may have jotted down on the corners of my sketches. “Stippled sky” or “Mottled grass” give me clues to the scene in my art journals. Although some items need to be more carefully rendered – most other times details can be left to the imagination.
I try to think of drawing as exercise and fact-finding while painting for me is more explorative and experimental. When I develop a picture I prefer to emphasize the abstract and textural qualities of the object.
Truth be told, I am hooked on watercolor with its fluidity and transparency. I delight in wet-into-wet process but have also found that in order to paint more abstractly, I must experiment. So I stipple and blot, crinkle and scratch until the surface reveals the look I’m seeking. There is no sacred part but I always try to keep in mind the initial idea that prompted me to sketch or paint at first.
Wintertime can be a fabulous time of exploration and adventure!
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