Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Everyone Can Be Water Color Artists

By Cecile Ingram


Throughout the ages there has been one medium that has endured in the art world. From the cave paintings to the modern day art world this medium has been largely unchanged. The cave painters would mix pigment from the ground with water, and their modern counterparts still do the same, without having to dig out their own pigments. Welcome to the world of water color artists.

Despite it being a popular form of art, it is very difficult to become a master of. For many their first experience will have been gained as a child, sat at a newspaper covered table. Wielding a brush in one hand whilst sat in front of a paint set, a book and a jam jar full of water. Those basic requirements are still the same today, whether it be a child painting or a professional.

This is possibly why it has proved to be such an enduring medium. Just consider the monks as they created their illustrated manuscripts, these were made using the same medium. Even most of those who people consider to be the old masters of the art world have also used and explored this medium.

The reach in popularity for this style really is worldwide. There are many different styles, such as Asian and European but it is a simple matter to note the differences. It has to be said that it has not always been quite so popular, but today there are full classes everywhere.

The methods of teaching are many and varied, some use CDs and books which removes the need to actually use a teacher. Others try to learn from programs on the Internet. By this means they can study the techniques over and over again until they understand them. It all seems so different to how it used to be.

Even European nobility considered it to be an apt pastime. The painters of that time were often engaged to provide instruction and guidance to the household. Those not of noble birth would form clubs and experiment amongst themselves, as they tried to create realistic light and shade. Others preferred their own company and so carried their equipment to a remote spot where they too could experiment.

The heyday for the medium really started with the English in the eighteenth century. It had grown to be a lot more popular within the British Isles than it had on the European mainland. It can not be said for certain that it was one man alone who caused such a rising of popularity. For many a leading light was a man called Paul Sandby, and he is often acknowledged as a strong candidate for such a title.

Everyday, somebody, somewhere is practicing this art form, the reason for their inspiration can be numerous, but they feel a need to put down what they can see in their mind's eye. It might be an abstract work, or the more traditional realism which everyone routinely associates with water color artists. It is an all encompassing style and any can join in, no matter their station in life. The cost of equipment is minimal, so maybe this has inspired you to go out and create your very own masterpiece.




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