Loose watercolor painting is my favorite technique for bringing ideas to paper. This style is where the softness of movement travels in a spontaneous way, not to mention that it feels organic and good.
I mentioned this back in the June watercolor prompt when I started these articles. They have been fun and as we ease into fall I thought it would be fun to practice loose watercolor blending.
This concept is more of a practice adventure so you won't need any fancy paper. I recommend using a spiral tablet to review your progress, paints or primary colors and round brushes are preferred.
Prompt Watercolor Paper
Loose watercolor begins with a basic mixed media paper. Since we are practicing there is no need to use good paper for this prompt.
One that I like is from HQ Finestroke, you can purchase it from "Five Below" in their art aisle for $5. I discovered this paper a couple years ago and absolutely love it for technique improvement.
This paper is for mixed media' it's nice and thick but feels like a cross between hot and cold press.
HQ can also be found on Amazon for a few dollars more or my affordable paper options are always listed in my favorites here.
Just remember with this prompt any paper will do but please use your least expensive options because we are simply practicing.
Loose Blending Details
One of the things that I love about watercolor is how the movement of blending can create a lift. These little details come from a loose painting style, one that isn't controlled by the artist.
This way of painting also has a tendency to form hard exterior lines and cauliflowers. I love both because they blend multiple colors in a way that is magical.
Cauliflower blooms occur when a drop of paint or water is placed in a dry area by using too much water. Where hard lines occur when pools of water dry unevenly and push color to the edge.
Let me add that many watercolor artists do not appreciate these characteristics, however with a more impressionist almost abstract painting style they are welcomed with open arms.
You can practice loose watercolor blending on wet or dry paper. I do both and recommend using at least three colors but if this is a relatively new concept then use two. It won't take long to uncover what is appealing and you may even try four.
This prompt will help you create your own style of painting, which I believe is a positive thing for growth and forming a connection with your gift.
Making the Connection
After a few pages of loose blending with watercolor a connection will transpire. Quite honestly you will either love or dislike it immediately.
As you can guess, I love it and later this month when the temperatures cool I am headed outdoors to bring my afternoons of blending into something finished.
So loosen up, paint on practice paper and make the connection with what might be hiding within.
If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask and leave a comment if you would like video in the future. It's not really my thing but something I have been thinking about.
Encouraging goodness,
Carole West
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