Raw transparency
Traditionally, watercolor goes on white paper… I paint on raw canvas, so it requires special preparation (also takes a lot longer to dry!). I love how the natural color, textures and imperfections of the fabric come thru the transparent color.
After a light sketch is done on pencil, I follow with many, many layers beginning with very light washes until color is applied full strength. Portraits on this series are painted using only two colors: sepia and payne’s gray (a dark blue-grey), and variations are achieved mixing the two.
Once the portrait is finished, I mount it on a cradled wood panel and apply mat varnish and/or wax for protection.
