Spanish Spring Blossoms in Talavera Vase 2016

This year, the spring was like an explosion of colors. We had a lot of rain and the flower season was abundant and long-lasting. When I establish where the vase and blossoms go on the picture plane, I focus on my favorite part, respecting the whites and emphasising color.

This year, the spring was like an explosion of colors. We had a lot of rain and the flower season was abundant and long-lasting.

Paper pointing to model — When I start a watercolor, I point the paper at the model. The paper is thick, 640 GMS. I tape it down with normal carpenter’s tape because I will finish this watercolor before the sun goes down and the light changes drastically. I wet the paper with a brush, wait til it soaks up the water and wet it down again. I don’t always do this, but I want the flowers to blend in with the background.

Moving around the paper — The paper is completely wet, but not soaking to the point where the paint runs. Then, I start laying in color where I see it, trying to get the form as exact as possible.

Estabilshing Vase and Flowers When I establish where the vase and blossoms go on the picture plane, I focus on my favorite part, respecting the whites and emphasising color.