Watercolour, Observation and Confidence in Cornwall
A blustery day in Cornwall changed our plans slightly. Rather than battling the wind outside, we headed into her art studio and spent the session having fun with watercolour techniques.
Sometimes those unexpected changes create some of the loveliest art sessions.
We explored light, shade, shadow and depth of field, looking at how these elements can strengthen the artwork she is already creating and help give a greater sense of space, atmosphere and focus.
Learning to See More Clearly
One of the most important parts of learning art is developing observation. It is not about learning to copy somebody else's technique. It is about understanding what you are actually seeing and knowing how to use that information in your own work.
Where is the strongest light? Where does a shadow soften? Which areas need detail and which can disappear slightly? How can colour, tone and contrast help something come forward or move further into the distance?
These principles can be used in watercolour, acrylic, drawing and many other forms of art.
During this session we used them to enhance the work she is already producing rather than changing her individual style. She is doing so well… and I think that smile says everything.
Art, Confidence and Being Absorbed in the Moment
One of my favourite parts of teaching is seeing the moment when knowledge begins to create confidence.
As someone understands why something works, they become less dependent on being told what to do next. They begin making their own decisions and trusting their own eyes.
There is also something very special about becoming completely absorbed in making art. Attention turns towards colour, shape, light, movement and observation, giving the mind an opportunity to concentrate on what is directly in front of us.
That connection between mind, body, observation and creativity is one of the things I love about art for people of all ages.
Making Art in Mawgan Porth and Cornwall
I feel extremely fortunate to make artwork and teach art here in Cornwall, with so much of my work connected to Mawgan Porth.
On a calm day there is little better than painting en plein air, surrounded by the changing Cornish light, sea and landscape. On a windy, blustery day like this one, heading into an art studio can be equally rewarding and gives us time to concentrate more closely on technique and observation.
The surroundings may change, but the principle remains the same: understanding the fundamentals of art so that each artist can develop their own technique and their own visual language.
And when someone finishes a session with a smile like this, it is difficult to ask for much more.
Photographs shared with permission.
