Posts in Art History
The Versatility of Watercolour: A Journey Through Painting Styles

Monet's "Woman with a Parasol" (although not a watercolour painting) is a perfect example of the Impressionist painting style, showcasing the artist's mastery in capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere. This piece of visual art, created by one of the most famous artists of the 19th century, depicts an elegant figure against a vibrant, dynamically brushed sky, capturing the quick movement and immediate feelings that are important to Impressionist art.

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Finding the Perfect Artist Signature for Your Paintings

For me, signing artwork is important. It is a meaningful step in your artistic journey. It’s your seal of authenticity, a sign that the piece you've created is an original and a true reflection of your talent. This becomes especially important in the art market, where the distinction between an original piece and a reproduction can significantly impact the value of the artwork.

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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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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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