How to Make Quick Watercolour Sketch PART3

Hi, Friends, a loose style looks care-free. But, in fact, it requires calculated spontaneity.

The calculated spontaneity, I mean, is a good balance between unexpected outcomes(eg.wet-in-wet, brush stroke) and planned results(eg. color unity, value). It gives a picture a "rhythm" -- movement marked by the regulated succession of "strong and weak" elements, or of "opposite or different" conditions." In short, "contrast."

"Value" and "color" are handy tools to make a contrast.
In this experiment, compare a traditional style (left) with a loose style (right). *size A4In the loose one, "light" and "colors" are the main concerns. A rest of other information is omitted. Simplified value = Less medium value area, is the key.

Opposite or opposite-like colors make a strong contrast. They work for darks to emphasize values.
For example, red plays up dark with blue in the hair. There, I "intentionally" made a big happy accident, wet-in-wet. Lucky!Further, in the loose style, color use is much brighter than the traditional work. Yellowish green for a blouse boosts up a contrast to the light purple hair, added with only one big stroke. Another happy accident! But keep an eye on color unity of a whole picture, while making a contrast.
As we see above, in quickies, playful colours and reinforced values make vivid contrasts set by an artist. Bouncy and less brush strokes make happy accidents. Plus, only important parts remain and unnecessary information is gone. Viewers enjoy a comfortable rhythm in a fresh and lively picture.

If color use is very challenging, please try lots of "black and white." (commissioned work pencil, A2). B&W practice certainly shows how to simplify a subject and a choice of color.


So, for a loose style, cook a subject with an intensified contrast in unique colors that characterize your work yummy! Then, forget a rest of other factors.

Simple is best. Calculated spontaneity stays between instinct and techniques. That's a quickie.

Please remember, aiming too high never achieves anything. Get lost? Go back to B&W.

And DON'T forget celebrating your achievement!Here's Teri's wonderful blog, "The Twenty Minutes Challenge." I really love the blog's spirit. Go and upload your precious work and let us share your joy.

Lastly, I dedicate this say for YOU, all readers and myself,

Yesterday's dream is Today's truth and Tomorrow's reality.

Friends, just do it! You'll find a way. Feel free to leave comments. Qs are Welcome. I hope my contradicted writing makes sense to you.

Next week, I'll chat over "face expression," as Irina mentioned. Thank you for great interest and wonderful friendship.
Happy everyday painting!!

How to Make Quick Watercolour Sketch PART3