COMPOSITION PRACTICE #2, PART 3

    First, we add the finishing dark color washes: yellow/green, green and blue/green. The greens were scattered more toward the background and the blues painted in the foreground. Not all the lake area has to be painted--just where more color definition is desired. Notice that the darker washes also bring out the crayon resist highlights. Some of that same yellow green is painted on the narrow grass strip next to the path. We'll let this painting set a few minutes.

    To completely finish the water area, we'll add some details. Again using the drop and drag color method from the flowers, we'll paint a few spots of dark blue/black near the waters' edge. Flipping the brush over, we'll drag the dark color up for stems and leaves. The tops of the cattails are brush painted. Add more if you like. Then, we'll repeat the process along the grass strip scattering patches of grass blades where desired. A small rock is painted near the large one. Then, with the darkest mix, we'll add a horizontal stroke for a boat, 2 dabs for a figure and a short, angled line for an oar. Water area is near completion.

    The 3 divisions of the rock are modified some more. Gray/greens, gray/browns and dark brown/black are mixed for final wash application and detailing. Again, not all of the rock is repainted. The hues mixed are not so dark as to completely cover those washes already in evidence. The intent here is to paint a kind of "glaze" that allows the undercolors to show through where desired. The very dark hue defines the rock projection in the middle, and crevices in the top. With a "drop and drag" method, dark weeds and plants are placed in the rock, on its right side and in the water. While the washes are still damp, the gray hue is spattered over the surface again. The small rock is given an outline and wash in the middle.

    Just a few details to finish. Using the dark mixtures available, a touch up here and there needs to be done. The pathway can be outlined a bit more on both sides. The small rock should have water lines over the rock to suggest water flowing over its base. With a medium gray add some shadowing under the flower heads, petals and ground areas. Darken the outline cracks of the large rock and add fine crack lines to further age it. And last, darken the horizontal line where mountain and water meet, blending that into the water. Check over the tiny detailed areas and spice them up with a tiny dark stroke if needed. Amen. We're done!

   Here's hoping the 4 skill practices were helpful to you in learning a bit about the nature of watercolors, brush painting techniques and effecting wash control. It was a pleasure to offer them for you.