Glass of Water with Cornflower, watercolour on Saunders Waterford HP 300gsm, 13 × 9in (33 × 23cm). Note the dark tone of the reflections of the water in the glass; the tonal contrasts of the rim and base; the highlight at the base; the refraction of the stalk. Also, note where the rim has been negatively painted, where the stalk passes both behind and in front of the rim
Tomatoes in Cut Glass, watercolour on Saunders Waterford HP 300gsm, 9 × 13in (23 × 33cm). This multifaceted glass bowl has a scalloped edge. A series of pale grey dots positioned the various ellipses, which were then painted in using a good-quality flat sable. Even the shadow had complex issues. It was difficult to know when to stop but less is more in a situation like this. You will notice a few changes, made with the sponge, and several drawing corrections. Be brave – be ruthless when working on complex items such as this
Iput my satisfaction with watercolour painting down to its elusive quality. The merest touch of colour dropped onto a wet surface can express so much. So often it is the case of what is not painted that says what is intended and in this article I shall give you a few hints and tips that will help to explain almost nothing!