This is a watercolor from the series ‘My Favorite Bottles’. Here are a some painting stages.

Paper with Model

I’m using Arches 300 GMS watercolor paper.  The model is on the table in back to the right.

Starting with the area I like the most.

I wet the paper first.  I didn’t start with a drawing, so I start on my favorite part and build up around the first object I put on the paper.

Still putting everything where it belongs

At this point, I’m still placing everything on the paper, trying to imagine how it will look at the end.

Developing the background and foreground

After I know where the bottles belong on the format, I continue with a la prima and try to get the shapes and colors in one shot.

Glass Bottles on Table 2014

The painting is finished. I try not to go back into the painting once the surface of the paper is covered.

Glass Bottles on Table 2014 (framed)

I no longer have this painting.  I like the way they framed it with a 3-4 inch mat around the picture, giving it plenty of room between the painted area and the frame.

Glass Bottles on Table 2014, framed and on the wall

The frame goes well with the furniture and curtain and the colorful bottles add an accent of color to the living room.  I love to see my painting in this home.