Watercolor

Introduction to Watercolor seemed like an interesting elective course in college. The soft look of the brush strokes, the mix and mingle of the paint colors, and the wonderment of how water effects painting techniques – watercolor painting had intrigued me for years. I needed three more credits before finishing my general courses, and I thought “Why not give it a try.” I hadn’t taken an art class since middle school. At 13-years old I had been given a “C” for a drawing I had worked hard on (and was proud of). I remember asking my mother, “How could Mr. L give me a “C” for my drawing when art is individualistic?” “You have a good point, Erin.” My mother replied. “I think you should discuss your thoughts with your teacher.” The conversation was definitely uncomfortable, but my art instructor appreciated our conversation. Consequently, he raised my grade. Even though our conversation went well, I thought I wasn’t creative enough for art classes, so that art class would be my last. Well, until I signed up for Introduction to Watercolor at the end of my undergraduate program. Loading up on watercolor painting supplies in the school bookstore was much more fulfilling than loading up on textbooks. I filled my bag with a paint tray, tubes of paint, several types of brushes, and a simple sponge – I was ready to begin. Introduction to Watercolor taught me the basics of watercolor: color theory, brush techniques, how to fade colors, how to paint shadows, how to achieve a 3-D effect, etc. We painted flowers, shapes, paper bags, and even attempted to paint portraits – I wasn’t quite ready for that. I enjoyed the class, but I didn’t feel a strong connection to the art – yet. Nine years later, my mother-in-law asked me if I wanted to join her for another introductory watercolor course. I had just had my first baby, and I thought that one evening away would be great for me, so I agreed. The course was much like my introduction course in college, painting techniques were taught and many still-life paintings ensued. A fun landscape project was thrown in at the end of the class, but I still wasn’t enamored. My passion for watercolor painting wouldn’t be realized for another nine years. My kids and I were in the midst of studying the book “The Wild Horses of Sweetbriar” by Natalie Kinsey-Warnock – a classic children’s book with beautiful watercolor pictures painted by Ted Rand. Our assignment was to focus on painting animals, so I dug out my old bag of watercolor supplies I had purchased in the university bookshop and we began. I chose to paint a bunny as my daughter was having a bunny-themed birthday the following week. I was pleasantly surprised with the enjoyment I experienced while painting an animal. A few days later, I was motivated to paint another animal, so I took on a more difficult painting – a chicken. I am particularly fond of chickens as they provide me with plenty of entertainment around our home. A painting that was detailed, yet playful, was my goal for my new painting. Within hours, “Chicken Chortle” was born, and so was my watercolor awakening. I realized my passion for watercolor painting when I started painting pictures that depict the relationships between people, between people and animals, and between people and nature. The past six months have been filled with painting, and I have started on a journey that will always be a part of me. I knew my watercolor passion was there 18 years ago, but it was not fully realized until I found the right subjects. I look forward to sharing my paintings with you, and the heartwarming stories that accompany them. Have you ever had a passion sneak up on you?