Learning From Others

I do like doing studies of other artists' work. I find an image that appeals to me and then try and dissect how they achieved it. Sometimes it works out and I'm pleased with the results and I file the technique away in my mental toolbox. Even when it doesn't work out, I usually learn something valuable along the way or maybe go off on a completely different tangent. It's similar to mixing colours for me - I see a hue I like and then try to see if I can replicate it using what I have. 

That's what prompted this little study. I had seen the image on p interest and was immediately drawn to the bold colours and clean lines. First thing I learned - drawing precision and perspective is key! It's really not noticeable to my eye here on screen but in my hand I can see the left side of the biggest house is not quite right.

Study of Cathy Horvath's Fall Lodge Folk Art

I decided to start out in my usual comfort zone of working small, my natural inclination, so this was drawn on 5 x 7 watercolour 140 lb paper. I don't have much experience with, nor confidence in, my ability to handle reflections so that was my first worry. I decided to include them in the initial drawing, that way I wouldn't get it all drawn and painted and then screw it up with horrible water lines LOL.

I then decided I much preferred the square format so I taped it off at 5 x 5 inches. The colour was added using water soluble markers - some full strength, some watered down before applying. Yes, if you look really closely you will see some small blooms where impatience got the best of me sigh.

I don't think I will try another one but if I did I might choose to work in acrylics.