Posts tagged Watercolour
How to Create Depth in a Painting

In the enchanting world of watercolour painting, we artists often play a delightful game of spotlight with our subjects. Some objects in our paintings are the stars of the show, boldly stepping into the foreground, basking in the spotlight, and captivating the viewer's gaze with their vivid charm. They're the showstoppers, the ones that catch your eye and refuse to let go.

Meanwhile, other elements in our artwork prefer a more subtle role, gracefully receding into the background. They're like the whispers behind the main melody, softer, a tad fuzzy, and less vibrant.

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Why is watercolour so underrepresented in the Archibald Prize?

Despite the fact that watercolour is rarely seen in the Archibald Prize, there have been notable occurrences of its inclusion. One such example is Cherry Hood's portrait of acclaimed Australian pianist Simon Tedeschi which was awarded the 2002 Archibald Prize. This painting of the young virtuoso showcases Hood's mastery of the watercolour medium. From the lifelike piercing blue eyes to the intentional drip marks, Hood manages to capture a tender side of the subject not often seen in traditional portraiture. Standing at 3.2 metres tall and 1.9 metres wide, this painting is a testament to the power of the watercolour medium on a large-scale.

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Does being an artist have to be a lonely pursuit?

The idea of the solitary artist, working away on a project in solitude, has long been romanticised. It's true that much of the artistic process does require time alone to experiment and explore ideas. However, it is also true that art does not have to be a completely lonely pursuit. Working with other artists or even collaborating on projects can help to enrich the creative process and gain insight into how others approach their work.

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Mental Health and the Creative Arts. How Does Being Creative Help with Mental Health?

Creative activities can be deeply therapeutic. Creative arts such as painting, drawing, music, dance, and drama can provide a much-needed opportunity for reflection, relaxation, and self-expression. Being creative can help to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and increase self-confidence. It can be used as a form of personal therapy to explore feelings, work through difficult situations, or develop an understanding of the emotions that we experience.

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A History of Watercolour Art in Australia

These artists were drawn to watercolour as it allowed them to capture fleeting moments and the immediacy of the Australian wilderness. Without these early watercolour paintings, we would be deprived of a crucial record of Australia's history. They provide a unique glimpse into a time and place that has long since passed and allow us to appreciate the natural beauty of Australia as it was seen and experienced by the first European settlers.

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