Bringing the Everyday to Life

Last week I was supposed to be in a workshop given by Nicholas Simmons.  I was very excited, but then he had a family emergency and had to cancel.  I was disappointed of course, but then Willamarie Huelskamp said she would fill in and teach the workshop.  It was fantastic.  I really wanted to take Nicholas' workshop for insiration and to learn about incorporating acrylic paint with watercolor.  Willamarie did all of this.  Willamaire paints with watercolor and acrylic paint and it was interesting to watch her layer her paintings and impose order on chaos. 

We started the week by playing with the paints and coming up with an abstract piece.  It was a lot of fun.  Then, we were to do a portrait.   chose to do a portrait of my youngest son, Garek.  My mom was complaining that I had not yet done a painting of him.  I started with a light chaotic wash of watercolor.  I then drew Garek's face with pencil and did a second layer of watercolor, but still light.  I just started to indicate the form of his face.  After it was dry I brushed on a thin layer of Acrylic mat medium, which dries clear and protects the watercolor underneath.  I was then able to paint with acrylic paints on top.  I did not cover the entire painting with acrylics, being sure to leave some of the watercolor showing through.  However, the darker values are acrylic paint.  Here is the painting....

Garek

Mixed Media 14" x 21"

I was really excited how this turned out and excited to try another portrait, which I did.  I used the same method....

The Balloon Man

Mixed Media 14" x 21"

I admit that he turned out a little creepy, but I still liked the effect.  I then tried this same technique on some figures....

Shopping Trio

Mixed Media 21" x 14"

I love experimenting with new mediums.  This has opened up some possibilities for me.  I plan on continuing to experiment with this technique and see what I can come up with.  Stay tuned for more.....

Happy Painting:)

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