5 Things I Wish I Knew when I First Started Painting in Watercolor

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  • čas přidán 25. 06. 2024
  • Hindsight is a wonderful thing! Here are five things I wish I knew when I first started painting in watercolor.
    Books mentioned in this video:
    📕 Skies, Light and Atmosphere in Watercolour - David Bellamy amzn.to/43D4xwq
    📚 Watercolor You Can Do It - Tony Couch amzn.to/3IPoDMf
    🖼 Prints of Kookaburra painting here: www.louisedemasi.com/prints/k...
    🖼 Prints of Guinea Fowl: www.louisedemasi.com/prints/g...
    🎥 Videos mentioned in this video:
    How I stretch paper: • How to Stretch Waterco...
    The secret to beautiful watercolour paintings: Planning Ahead: • The Secret to Beautifu...
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    🧑🏻‍🎨 Fine Art Supplies I Use: www.louisedemasi.com/art-supp...
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    🎨 FREE guide on '5 MISTAKES WATERCOLOUR PAINTERS MAKE'.
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    ⏱ TIME STAMPS
    0:00 Introduction
    0:08 Lift colour after the paint has dried
    3:11 Stretching watercolour paper - keep paper flat
    4:24 Composition - Design element- Dominance
    6:28 Mixing paint
    8:34 Don't fuss with the paint- accept what it gives you
    10:18 Outro
    11:10 Bloopers
    FIND ME HERE:👇🏻
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Komentáře • 448

  • @Avi_Z.
    @Avi_Z. Před 7 měsíci +50

    I am 68 and was a singer songwriter until I lost my singing voice in a surgery. So now I am trying my hand at art. Thank you for these lovely videos!!!

    • @judylangmuir3600
      @judylangmuir3600 Před 6 měsíci +4

      That's tough, so I'm glad you chose another way to be creative! I, too, had surgery for vocal polyps and my voice was never the same. So I've taken up watercolour and couldn't be happier!!

    • @user-gc1lh2qi4k
      @user-gc1lh2qi4k Před 3 měsíci +1

      Kudos to you!!!👏

    • @marciadempsay6104
      @marciadempsay6104 Před 3 měsíci +2

      I lost my voice for almost a year. I went to the Voice Center at Vanderbilt University. I was able to get my voice back in about six weeks. Nashville Tn. Wishing you my best

    • @Avi_Z.
      @Avi_Z. Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@marciadempsay6104 Thank you for sharing your story. 🥰. My voice has improved some over the past years but I won’t be able to preform. Hafta say I definitely miss being on stage! 😊 having said that I’m really glad I don’t have to carry amplifiers around anymore. 😂. Enjoy your voice, it is a true gift!!💝

    • @I.M.SofaKingdom
      @I.M.SofaKingdom Před 5 dny +1

      Sorry about your voice. I'm a musician who can no longer play guitar because of age, arthritis, etc. I'm trying my hand at painting, something I've always wanted to do. I have a lot to learn, but I'm pleased with my progress so far. Thank God for CZcams tutorials! How did I ever get along without them? 😂

  • @sandrapate7497
    @sandrapate7497 Před rokem +101

    Louise, As a beginning painter I find your bloopers delightful. Not only do they tingle me but they remind me to relax and have fun. Your work is stunning. Thank you.

  • @janicerichards1814
    @janicerichards1814 Před rokem +52

    Thanks so much for your candor. The one thing I wish I’d known was that practice in a sketchbook is essential. Identify a day that you’ll practice leaf shapes, or softening edges - or removing paint from dried paper (!). It’s through learning these things and practicing these skills that we improve. You can’t create a masterpiece every day.
    BTW, I had the privilege of attending a four-day watercolor workshop with Tony Couch, the author of WATERCOLOR YOU CAN DO IT, last Spring on St. Simon s Island, Georgia in the US. Tony is amazing and still going strong at 95 years young. It was amazing to be in the presence of watercolor royalty!!

  • @Keyboardje
    @Keyboardje Před rokem +3

    With writing stories I'm what is called a "pantser". That means I can's for the life of me PLAN a story. Well, I can plan it, but then I feal like I've already written it, and then having to actually put it on paper is impossible for me. I have to let the story tell itself to me while I'm writing it.
    With watercolour painting I find the same thing. I can plan very carefully, but when I try to paint it, it won't work. Because to me that feels like all the joy and surprise of then actually painting it have gone. It's become more like a chore. So I have to see what it becomes, how I paint it, as I go.
    That's just how I am I guess.
    I've only started painting about 2 to 3 years ago, so I consider myself to be a beginner. Videos like this are so very helpful. Thanks :)

  • @kristyspeaks1379
    @kristyspeaks1379 Před 16 dny +1

    Thank you for accepting your flaws. You seem very sweet and talented.

  • @bookworm2398
    @bookworm2398 Před rokem +105

    One of the things I wish I knew is working with a limited palette; I learned this from you. It's fine to buy every color that catches your fancy but a good painting has only a few; you can achieve great results just by changing the amounts. Thanks for stressing color harmony; it really makes a difference.

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem +6

      So true. Thank you very much!

    • @Jalleur14325
      @Jalleur14325 Před rokem +1

      Yes and learning to mix paint. It's tricky!

    • @premila601
      @premila601 Před rokem +4

      I too learnt these tips by trial and error.....one thing I am still struggling with is achieving transparency in watercolours in one go...with tonal values in place and it should look like the pic is done... all in one wash. Looking forward to a video of this kind. Thanks Louise.

    • @premila601
      @premila601 Před rokem

      I too learnt these tips by trial and error.....one thing I am still struggling with is achieving transparency in watercolours in one go...with tonal values in place and it should look like the pic is done... all in one wash. Looking forward to a video of this kind. Thanks Louise.

    • @jacintacesp
      @jacintacesp Před rokem +2

      @@premila601 yes, and that makes a huge difference to the luminance of the piece. I also tend to go over my watercolour and it loses that.

  • @montagnu
    @montagnu Před rokem +25

    When I decided I wanted to take up watercolour painting I signed up for a comprehensive course that took me a year to complete.
    The instructor taught some of the things you mention in this video, such as not making every element of a painting the same size whether it be rocks, trees, or flowers. He also talked about the importance of making a focal point in the painting and other basic elements of composition, and also that it's possible to lift paint once it's dry.
    A big focus of his course was on how to mix colours and using a limited palette, so I got familiar with this all-important aspect of watercolour painting from the get go. I have a lot of colours of paint, but I rarely use more than six for any given painting.
    He also made it clear from the get go that if you want to succeed at watercolour painting you absolutely must use 100% cotton paper, even as a beginner, no ifs, ands, or buts about it. I took that advice seriously and started off right away using Arches, although I no longer use it.
    The thing I struggle with the most is my perfectionism, which leads me to fiddle with my paintings. My perfectionism is difficult for me to let go of.
    Maureen

    • @Shrn57
      @Shrn57 Před rokem

      Maureen, I'm so like you. my perfectionism gets the best of me most times, yet it's hard to let go of it!

  • @amypatterson5925
    @amypatterson5925 Před rokem +78

    I would love to see a more in depth video on “dominance” and composition. You’re the first person I’ve seen mentioning this. It sounds really interesting.
    Also I just wanted to say how much I appreciate and enjoy your videos. I’ve learned so much from you. I especially like your bloopers at the end of every video. It shows us your unique personality which is amazing 🥰

    • @TheMadGrim
      @TheMadGrim Před 10 měsíci +2

      Ian Roberts' youtube channel is a great resource for learning composition! @Ianrobertsmasteringcomposition

    • @edwardblank4060
      @edwardblank4060 Před 11 dny

      @@TheMadGrim 10:34

  • @Kissfrogs74
    @Kissfrogs74 Před 5 měsíci +3

    You said it, mistakes are how you learn. I really appreciate you talking about what didn’t work for you as well as what did instead of just giving a list of things to do.
    Thanks so much for letting us benefit from your experience.

  • @walkinginwatercolourswithmicah

    Somewhere I learned to call dominance "weight". I look at a drawing and decide where I want all the "weight" to go 🙃. Louise, I am so glad you brought up mixing your own greens. Mixing them yourself creates so much flavour in a painting, especially landscapes with cool and warm greens playing up shadowy areas in the scenery.
    Have used magic erasers for a few colour lifting/blending techniques. If done gently it will produce some amazing sky effects. I have even used balled up toilet paper to lift out clouds....the grand kids thought that was funny, but it sure got their imagination going!
    Would love to hear more about the principles of design! Is an area I kind of ignore often.

  • @cherylwalrath-duran2996
    @cherylwalrath-duran2996 Před 10 měsíci +4

    Louise, I wish I had known more about composition, including the importance of dominance, values, gradation, and when /where to use soft and hard edges. I also wish I had known to use a limited color palette.
    Louise, I adore the outtakes at the end of your videos. You are such a delight---as a person, as an artist, and as a teacher! Your charming personality, talent, and expertise shine through every video, and I thank you and your team for all the hard work required to produce such well-crafted educational content. Lousie, thank you for sharing your wisdom and creativity, and for inspiring us on a continuous basis. Most of all, thank you for being you! You are a great blessing to all of us!

  • @bonniesales9278
    @bonniesales9278 Před 7 měsíci +2

    What a sweet soul you are! Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom.

  • @healthyoiling4041
    @healthyoiling4041 Před rokem +57

    Love this helpful video -I would love to hear more about the principles of design with examples-your instruction on dominance was so so helpful ❤ Louise I hope you know what a treasure you are ! - Bonnie

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem +1

      Thank you Bonnie! I'm glad it was helpful.

    • @joycebruhn1346
      @joycebruhn1346 Před rokem +2

      I agree I am looking for things to do in my sixties being as it appears I will be more alone in my days … my alziemers were continue to progress if I don’t reverse it

    • @gills3679
      @gills3679 Před 11 měsíci +1

      ​@@joycebruhn1346add coconut oil to your food it halts the progress of alzeheimers. I'm also starting to paint in my sixties and loving these videos so much. What a wealth of knowledge Louise has. So enjoy her.

  • @tabithachandler4302
    @tabithachandler4302 Před rokem +36

    This was a great video! (New sub here). I would love to see you recreate those paintings and show the side by side comparisons, explaining what you did differently. I think it could be interesting and very helpful for a lot of us. Thanks!

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem +17

      Thank you Tabitha! Someone else suggested this and I thought it was a great idea. So, as we speak, I am working on that. I don't have footage of when I painted the overworked tulip because I painted it before I started filming myself but I can use it to show the differences on the second tulip painting that I have just completed. The new video will be out next month.

  • @jodiesinclair4377
    @jodiesinclair4377 Před rokem +12

    Your bloopers are amazing! I am so grateful you included them. It shows us you are real ❤️ I've learned so much from you- thank you xx

  • @b.j.9439
    @b.j.9439 Před 24 dny

    Just wanted to say Thank You for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience. The outtakes are amazing - shows that video creators aren’t perfect and wrestle with creation of videos as well. This is something I have found in creating anything - the ebb and sway with art is part of the process and all creators experience it.

  • @melaniebaynes2730
    @melaniebaynes2730 Před rokem +10

    I really appreciate the knowledge and experience you share with us Louise. But, I must confess, my favourite parts of all your videos are the outtakes; they absolutely crack me up 😂! Thank you for being willing to share those too, you bring much needed humour with every one. Thank you and God bless. 🙏💖

  • @melindakoger6128
    @melindakoger6128 Před 5 měsíci +2

    I too am an acrylic painter and I'm about to give up on watercolors. I overwork everything and love detail painting. I'll keep at it. Thanks so much for the tips!

  • @renee1292
    @renee1292 Před rokem +18

    Louise, this video was so helpful! It brings out that no matter how many years we have been painting, or doing anything, there is always more to learn!

  • @Ekster77
    @Ekster77 Před 9 měsíci +1

    I love your bird paintings!

  • @AshB_Watercolors
    @AshB_Watercolors Před rokem +4

    No no no! All your paintings are beautiful! You have just advanced my dear!!!! I know it’s so easy to down our work… call it ugly, rip it up and throw it in the bin … but I refuse! I keep every single “failure” of a painting. To others they might not see what I see as a failure. But I learn for it all. I won’t call it ugly though….. just lessens! Lol!!! ❤

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem

      That's really important Ashley. Keep them so you can see how much you've grown. Thank you! ❤️

  • @eleanorbenner1885
    @eleanorbenner1885 Před 5 měsíci +1

    You have such a calm, relaxed voice. Very pleasing.

  • @SuZZieQ1000
    @SuZZieQ1000 Před rokem +1

    Louise I enjoyed your video on what I wished I knew in the beginning. What I would love to see is for you to do those 3 paintings over now, so we can see what you mean.

  • @thebirdartistscottage
    @thebirdartistscottage Před rokem +6

    Thanks for the wonderful and helpful video. One caveat about lifting dried washes. Some pigments are staining and don’t lift. My first watercolor teacher used staining pigments so she could glaze over them without worrying about the pigments below moving at all. The manufacturer usually includes info about how staining the pigment is. Thanks again!

  • @juliehopkins5784
    @juliehopkins5784 Před rokem +2

    Mmm….baby steps really resonated with me ❤

  • @eileentascioglu5249
    @eileentascioglu5249 Před rokem +1

    You are such a good teacher!! I appreciate all your suggestions. And your "Bloopers" are SO CUTE AND FUNNY!!!!!

  • @karendirmish2696
    @karendirmish2696 Před rokem

    So important to hear your words, and I am a Person who tends to Overdo/Think! I am trying to relax and enjoy! Thanks, Karen Dirmish

  • @girliebirdco1264
    @girliebirdco1264 Před rokem

    12:47 2 things I like when watching videos:
    1. Bloopers
    2. Funny, sweet, vulnerable, and sincere bloopers.
    Thanks. Your content is valuable to us.
    Liesa

  • @ahjortegaard
    @ahjortegaard Před rokem +6

    Videos like these are gold. Thanks for making them 🥰

  • @radiantnavin8033
    @radiantnavin8033 Před rokem +4

    I always do not miss watching your videos, they are very informative and valuable for beginner watercolor artists.

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem

      I appreciate that very much. Thank you Navin!

  • @dzhontrofey6048
    @dzhontrofey6048 Před 3 měsíci

    i have to do a water colour painting for my exam, this helps, to include the bloopers is amazing!

  • @KeepBeautyReal1
    @KeepBeautyReal1 Před 5 měsíci

    This was so helpful! Only about a month into painting and I will take these to heart. The fussing element was speaking directly to me. Love the outtakes, AND your burgundy mascara!

  • @barbaragillian9004
    @barbaragillian9004 Před rokem +3

    Louise, I began painting with watercolor about four years ago now. I have struggled with the exact same things that you described in this video. I also need to say that I've learned so much from watching your videos and the lessons that you posted in SkilShare. Thank you!

  • @ushioco1471
    @ushioco1471 Před rokem +4

    THANK YOU.....thank you for your oh so helpful ideas and examples but also for your bloopers! I love knowing that part of you. Gives me the understanding that we are all on this watercolor journey together.

  • @Jalleur14325
    @Jalleur14325 Před rokem +7

    So useful, thanks Louise. I think you are right in that size variation is important. However there are also exceptions - like wildflower fields tend to be all a similar size in a lot of paintings and they look great.
    I was chuckling to myself as you showed us those spectacular tulips and said "way too bright" - I thought they looked great! But yes, softer neutrals do look stunning. I am a bit baffled by colour mixing. I bought the primary colours to try and learn how to mix greys. Not easy!
    My top tip is to not overpaint - i.e leaving white. V hard to do!

  • @Shrn57
    @Shrn57 Před rokem +1

    I just happened upon this video and I'm SO happy that I did. My perfectionism stops me in my tracks, sometimes, from actually painting and creating. I need to let go and loosen up a bit. Thank you for your inspiration Louise!

  • @rebeccac2032
    @rebeccac2032 Před rokem +1

    Omg the silver scrubber brushes.... LOL. I, too, started with a small bristle brush, and then found the silver scrubber brushes - I think we can definitely agree that they scrub off way more than the paint! They need to come with a warning label... The Rosemary & Co. eradicator brushes took a while to arrive from the UK, but once they arrived, I haven't stopped using them - they are fantastic. Another brilliant video Louise - I hope you and Dom have as much fun making these as we all have watching them! xx Rebecca

  • @fuzzydragons
    @fuzzydragons Před rokem +2

    i knew you could lift watercolour, but those brushes look very handy to have🙂

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem

      They are really helpful. I use them a lot. Thank you!

  • @trulylynn9941
    @trulylynn9941 Před rokem +2

    I used a wet majic eraser to remove water color from dry paper.

  • @Bananaterricottapie
    @Bananaterricottapie Před 8 měsíci +1

    Im trying to learn watercolour after being an acrylic painter too!! Im so glad you have that perspective to share, this video was really helpful! Thank you! :)

  • @donnayoula1283
    @donnayoula1283 Před 8 měsíci +1

    What a great video. I'm a total beginner and this information has been sooooo helpful.
    Thank you.
    And thanks for the giggles at the end.
    Love the bloopers 😂❤

  • @carollegros8671
    @carollegros8671 Před rokem +1

    It certainly is a learning process. Thanks for sharing

  • @laidman2007
    @laidman2007 Před rokem

    I often watch how-to videos. It's a pleasure to watch demos by someone who has a good eye. Yes, I like your work!

  • @annewatman677
    @annewatman677 Před rokem +4

    These videos about actual “learning” are so helpful. I’m happy to say I have the Rosemary brushes, but I was never certain about using them on dry paint. And I give you all the credit for my becoming a paper stretching enthusiast! It makes a huge difference, and it’s much easier than I thought. I already had a nice sized gator board that worked great. But I also had a larger one, about double in size. Since I’m mainly interested in practicing and learning, I’m not ready for anything too large. My husband was able to cut the large board in half, so now I have 3 boards, which means I can always have my next project ready (something you pointed out on your video about this).
    I’m certain I’m overworking some of my paintings, but I’m also seeing a lot of improvement, so I’ll keep that in mind, but for now, I’m becoming more accepting of my shortcomings. And, as you may recall, I’m also an acrylic artist, and I completely relate to your descriptions. (I still want to finish one portrait of my horse, but it’s hard going back to that medium.)
    One thing I would enjoy learning about is how to simplify a painting. I’ve always gotten lost in the details, and that’s especially difficult with watercolor. I’ve I notice how good you are at figuring out what should be included and what isn’t essential.
    Thank you, Louise.

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem +1

      Thank you Anne! I'm so pleased you are paper stretching enthusiast. It really doesn't take any time to do and as you said, if you have a few boards you can always have a piece of paper ready to work on when you are. It's so much easier painting on a piece of paper that stays flat.
      Being able to simplify a subject, I think comes from experience more than anything else. I am still working on that myself after 12 years. These days I ask myself what is it about the subject that I am attracted to and that's what I try to draw attention to in the painting.

  • @Clogo100v
    @Clogo100v Před 2 měsíci

    I think your watercolor paintings are pretty 😍 the way they are.

  • @Robin-MP
    @Robin-MP Před 7 měsíci

    Wow! I am so happy I just happened upon your video, I just started trying watercolor, I am an oil painter, WOW water is so different, I want to try gouache too. I am using cheap dime store paint and Walmart heavy watercolor paper. I KNOW from drawing with pencils how important the paper is and the paint is the most important so don't yell at me too much, I know, I should know better but I want to experiment and grow. I love the 5 things you came up with and I can say from being a seasoned painter and artist for all of my life, those you mentioned, dominance, gradation , unity, perspection and focus, etc, are incredibly important but I have been away from school for 20 years and one tends to forget things like that, I think it is important to go back to the beginning to refresh your mind on subjects you may have forgotten along the way. I think the difference between your paintings before and after the 5 things are night and day!, Love the kookaburra, the wash of blue in the back almost suggests a snowy sky in a way and makes the observer think, wait a min. that's an Australian bird!, then you tend to look closer and notice the bleeds, the hard lines and the moodiness and freeness of the brush strokes, I love it! I have seen so much in just this one video that all my years of art college instruction came flooding back, I am going to invest in some professional colors, and probably Strathmore paper. I love the color lift, great ideas, I always just used water and tissue paper to dab. My paper buckles too but I spray with water after I paint and place a clean piece on top of the painting and place a book on top, the next day it will go flat for you, but I know thats not a professional way. I have to look into "stretching. Thank you for all this, I am saving your video in my favorites.❤

  • @kittyblack1538
    @kittyblack1538 Před 10 měsíci

    Hey Louise, fellow watercolour artist here. I still think your "flawed" work is wonderful, realism isn't the be all end all. I absolutely know what you mean, and we're always improving. But I still think they're beautiful ❤ thank you for your video!

  • @sherryfaires7931
    @sherryfaires7931 Před rokem

    I know you said that some of your paintings are not beautiful…but they are absolutely gorgeous! I love the bright colors! Don’t change anything!

  • @karindw6384
    @karindw6384 Před 11 měsíci

    I love my Rosemary eradicators! Great tips for any skill level.

  • @rachealharding4044
    @rachealharding4044 Před 7 měsíci

    Louise I am a beginner..I have learnt more from watching your videos in the last week than I have with anyone else in the last few months.
    You don't rush and you explain slowly I detail..being 69 my brain doesn't absorb like it did when I was younger. Thank you very much. Your painti vs

    • @rachealharding4044
      @rachealharding4044 Před 7 měsíci

      Sorry your paintings are so beautifully done..

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před 7 měsíci

      Thank you very much Racheal. I'm so happy they help you.

  • @MargueriteAtHome
    @MargueriteAtHome Před 5 měsíci

    I know nothing about painting--with watercolors or otherwise..thank you for this video!

  • @hellovicki6779
    @hellovicki6779 Před rokem +1

    I have used cut up pieces of a Magic Eraser cleaning sponge and it gives a fantastic result. It can alter surface if over done though, not an issue unless intending to paint over again.

  • @jennifernelson6322
    @jennifernelson6322 Před 4 měsíci

    Louise, thank you so much for this lovely, informative video! My name is Jennifer and I learned a lot from you already. I am just beginning watercolor painting and have made many mistakes so I called them. I am such a perfectionist and want my small 3 x 4 pictures to be just perfect. Well, watercolor painting is teaching me that my "mistakes" are actually are moments of learning. We all should be learning until we take our last breath. We learn mostly be "doing" the task or skill, and we improve over time. I just had to embrace this truth as I was ready to give up because I felt defeated and overwhelmed. Whether we are a child learning to walk or an adult learning to watercolor paint, we must embrace the "mistakes" as "learning moments" because that is what they truly are. Thank you so much for being here for me! I will see you again very soon.
    Jennifer N. South Dakota, United States

  • @killercat6002
    @killercat6002 Před měsícem

    Hello Louise,
    I really enjoy your Videos and even if i am no beginner anymore, I still learn so much from you. Therefore I wish i had already knew you as a beginner😉🤗.
    My advice for beginners: Don't waste you money on cheap art supplies. Using professional colors (i prefer Schminke) is a huge revelation to love watercolorpainting. Also a good (recommanded) paper is very important and some high quality brushes. Yes, it seems expensive when you start, but it makes a huuuuge difference. Just buy a starter set from a good company and add the colors you also like from time to time later.
    If you like, you can add few cheap colors later, after you know how to paint and I promise you you will be very happy that you started and learned with the good ones.
    Happy painting to y'all❤

  • @GKganesan
    @GKganesan Před 4 měsíci

    Wonderfully informative. Straight from the heart.

  • @lynneboll4259
    @lynneboll4259 Před 3 měsíci

    This is just wonderful! A real guide for all painters! Thank you. I, too, have bought the Rosemary & Co. scrubbers, and am very pleased with how they do the job, but not as well on staining colors.

  • @carolineduncan6329
    @carolineduncan6329 Před 9 měsíci

    Thanks Louise, your straightforward way of communicating (and your frankness) is so refreshing!

  • @geraldc5165
    @geraldc5165 Před 9 měsíci

    You do the most amazing work. I truly enjoy and appreciate your videos.

  • @karindodge9814
    @karindodge9814 Před rokem

    Thank you for being so candid about your process of learning. So helpful.

  • @poppyllulu
    @poppyllulu Před rokem +2

    Brilliantly helpful video Louise! I took one of your early Art Summit classes a few years ago and I can see how much your style has evolved. I am definitely guilty of over working and over layering the paint and constantly striving to loosen up! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and journey.

  • @cab552
    @cab552 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I do resonate with all of your tips! Something I haven't tried is stretching my paper before painting. The bumps do not bother me too much, but if I'm working on a larger piece, you're right...the bumps in the paper can disrupt the smoothness of the painting, and I often find I'm fighting those areas. I'll check out your method for stretching paper. I do much better with techniques if I can see them demonstrated. One thing I wish I had known starting out is the difference between pulp and cotton watercolor paper. When I tried techniques on pulp paper, they didn't work and I thought I was not going to become an artist. Since then, I have been able to accept the limitations of pulp paper. So when I sketch an idea in a journal, I know automatically it will look much better when I try again on cotton watercolor paper. Thanks for sharing your expertise with us!!

  • @pgmetalnmetal
    @pgmetalnmetal Před 6 měsíci +1

    I've learned a lot from this video. Thank you so much

  • @colleenmcchesney1482
    @colleenmcchesney1482 Před rokem +8

    Oh I still struggle with color mixing & letting the paint do its own thing. Thanks so much for sharing this with us. I really appreciate your channel & I’m learning so much.

  • @sandraharris8386
    @sandraharris8386 Před rokem +4

    Double joy - succinct, really helpful tips for this beginner, AND a good chuckle first thing in the morning watching your outtakes - especially the search for the elusive sponge. Thank you as always Louise! 😄

  • @nancyrolfe3033
    @nancyrolfe3033 Před rokem +1

    Oh, thank you so much!! I wasn’t aware of all of those principles of design.
    I’m self taught and began painting in oils. I had to change when mother (who I was caring for) began having reactions to the smells.
    I’ve heard or read about the importance of value and a focal point. I believe I read about having repetition but honestly I don’t know how to apply this.
    I live in small community without any art center/store or teachers. I have a library of books that I love and have been very helpful…When I found CZcams after retiring from 40 years of teaching Math it’s been such a blessing!!
    Your video today has been the most informative one in nearly 4 years. I’m pulling up the two you linked.
    I’m going
    Funny…I ran across the first 2 pictures I’d painted recently and had to laugh at how thick I’d applied the paint. Like you, I’d reworked it just like I’d do with oils…😂
    Louise, I STILL think those first paintings you were showing are REALLY beautiful!! Some people like the super bright colors.
    You just ooze talent!!!
    Blessings,
    Nancy Rolfe
    I do love everything about the watercolor medium! I’m ordering the eradicator brushes right away. They looked great!
    Thank you for sharing with us

  • @sheilacym
    @sheilacym Před rokem +3

    Thank you, Louise, as always, for making these great videos that are always so helpful, especially as a ‘newbie’ to water colour.
    I really appreciate your natural, down to earth, calm and serene demeanour ( although I can imagine you smiling at that 🤭🤭 ) .
    🥳🥳💕💕

  • @leonebritt4879
    @leonebritt4879 Před rokem

    Love the bloopers and the info is gold!

  • @user-tg8wh7uz3j
    @user-tg8wh7uz3j Před 7 měsíci

    So many of Louise's videos I watch again and again.

  • @MichelleElise-jo9nc
    @MichelleElise-jo9nc Před rokem +2

    Thanks for your tips Louise! It sure is helpful. Of all the artists who work with watercolor, I think you are the clearest in explanation and I like the way you structure your videos. You don't rush things and I appreciate that very much.
    Composition is a difficult thing. Maybe it's possible to make a separate video of it? I am curious about examples and differences between compositions.
    What you said about avoiding different layers is interesting. I know artists who swear by painting several layers to get more depth and brightness in a painting. On the other hand, I also find the transparency of your paintings very beautiful and pure.

  • @amandasymon4363
    @amandasymon4363 Před rokem

    I now use eradicator brushes - thank you for bringing them to my attention - THEY ARE A GAME CHANGER 👊

  • @pamelakimball6978
    @pamelakimball6978 Před rokem

    I love your calmness, honesty and advise

  • @joykruczay
    @joykruczay Před rokem +2

    Great tips for artists of any experience level. The sponge technique works best with a natural sponge, and on good quality cotton paper. In my experience, since the colors that have dried can sink into the fibers, spraying it, waiting a few minutes to sink in, wipe with the sponge, then dab (not rub) color off with kitchen roll (paper towel). I have that book by Tony Couch and also his "Keys to Successful Painting". Both were purchased from him at the first workshop I took in 2001. He was 72 then and I saw on a forum in which I participate that he is still teaching! Many of his principles are based on his mentor and idol, Ed Whitney. I asked for something more personal in the signing, so he put, "Remember the values!". He paints in a traditional manner, wet to dry, light to dark, with minimal layers and glazing. I must still heed to the advice of "value and design" being of paramount importance. Most beginners use too many middle values. Tony felt that one should paint it as dark as needed the first go, to avoid mud. He always did value studies, some quite detailed.

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem

      Such great advice! Thanks so much for this Joy. I really appreciate it.

  • @hp2940
    @hp2940 Před 11 měsíci

    The use of cotton paper was a game changer for me. And blocks!

  • @jojomccarthy8345
    @jojomccarthy8345 Před rokem

    I just now found your channel, and really enjoyed the very informative video. What MADE it, however, was the bloopers bit at the end! Thanks for the info, and for the (much needed) smiles.

  • @appassionata971
    @appassionata971 Před rokem

    You are so right !!!! Watercolor painting is actually very difficult, but also very satisfying !!!

  • @petamorphett3328
    @petamorphett3328 Před 2 měsíci

    This is brilliant. Thank you so much for sharing all these priceless details.

  • @ladyamalthia7688
    @ladyamalthia7688 Před rokem

    Your older work is beautiful!! It's natural to learn and see mistakes in previous art. Still stunning art.

  • @lisahodgson7126
    @lisahodgson7126 Před 4 měsíci

    This is a great clear no fuss video! I love it! Thank you 😊 I’d love to see an example of the difference between an old painting and how you’d do it now 💗♥️

  • @barbaratibbets8643
    @barbaratibbets8643 Před rokem

    Excellent tips and some I will pass on to my students. “Don’t fuss with it” is the hardest concept for new painters.

  • @ficheye00
    @ficheye00 Před 6 měsíci +1

    I love your honesty. Thank you.

  • @eltinker8631
    @eltinker8631 Před rokem

    I have tried to paint with water colors over and over. I have always gotten frustrated. Thanks so much for this. I want to take notes and watch it again. thanks again

  • @TheJoyful63
    @TheJoyful63 Před 11 měsíci

    I enjoyed your video, and your old paintings ARE beautiful. I love vivid colurs, even if they are not technically correct.

  • @leahloving1580
    @leahloving1580 Před 5 měsíci

    Wow! Thank you. You are great. I'm learning so much from you. And I love the "bloopers". 😊

  • @LCLand
    @LCLand Před 10 měsíci

    I love those bold bright colors of your earlier work!

  • @inherjyze1ify
    @inherjyze1ify Před rokem +1

    Great advice on lifting colors especially after a painting has dried. Lifting out highlights adds a lot to detailing thanks.

  • @patmuscarella8279
    @patmuscarella8279 Před rokem +1

    Thank you. Great video. Ive painted watercolor for yrs. Ive taught myself an have taken lessons. Ive always had issues with loosing up. Not being stiff. Watercolor will lose its spontaneity with repeated as you would say "messing with it. " if you have any ideas pass them on. What i do is walk away soon after beginning. Close the door. Go back later an take a peek. Do a little more an repeat😊

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem

      That's great advice and something I hadn't thought of- walk away from it in the early stages. Thank you Pat.

  • @alenaviolin8558
    @alenaviolin8558 Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you! For me as a beginner this video gave some moments to use in my practice

  • @rissaarei5336
    @rissaarei5336 Před rokem

    Dear Louise, when you showed your "failures" my first thought was: "Wow, stunning!" It's a funny fact, that the more you know the more flaws you see. I've experienced the same with my own artwork, where I'd wallow in all the mistakes I did and a friend would be quite enchanted by my messy work , lol. Once you explained the flaws I could see what you meant, but it doesn't change the fact that I find both of those paintings stunning, if not perfect 🥰
    I recently thought to try out watercolor painting, but unfortunately lack a teacher. Insights into this medium from personal experiences are priceless to me and I'll definitely watch all your videos. Thank you, I'm very grateful that you are here sharing your knowledge with us!

  • @sayusayme7729
    @sayusayme7729 Před rokem

    Thank you, amazing . Lots of possibilities where none appeared 😂. Beautiful work

  • @caroleford6006
    @caroleford6006 Před 8 měsíci

    Hi Louise, thank you for your delightful presentation. I love the bloopers, they're so easy to do and lighten the mood. I can remember filming an entire preschool song on my phone to add to our video collection at school. When I checked the sound quality I noticed that in the background of the video was my weekly wash, hanging on the air drier and front and centre were my boldly striped undies!! Needless to say, I had to do the whole thing again, so now I always check my background. Cheers and I'll be watching your other videos too.

  • @gayleyip6689
    @gayleyip6689 Před rokem

    Louise, This was an awesome video. Thank you for your honesty about your growth. This is very helpful for all levels.

  • @aditighosh881
    @aditighosh881 Před 10 měsíci

    Your teachings, observations and paintings are amazing. Thank you for sharing ❤️

  • @girlart9
    @girlart9 Před 10 měsíci

    Brilliant!!! I had given up on watercolors and went to oil. Love it. Now I’m bored after twenty years and thinking of watercolors. Right in time your fantastic video shows up. THANK YOU. I’m subscribed and Liked your channel.

  • @bellastone-le9eb
    @bellastone-le9eb Před 11 měsíci

    This is extremely helpful and insightful. Thank you so much for doing these videos. Thank you for being transparent about mistakes because that’s how we all learn as you said!

  • @janecharbonneau1619
    @janecharbonneau1619 Před rokem

    OMG! I'm so glad I watched to the end. Thank you, Louise, for the best laugh of my week. So glad other people do things like this. Thank you, thank you 🙂

  • @TimBissettMedia
    @TimBissettMedia Před rokem

    Louise, the 5 things were great. So I click the thumbs up, then just as I was about to close the window, all of your bloopers started to play and by the end of them, I was wiping tears out of my eyes from how hard I was laughing. Your reactions to the bloopers were so authentic and familiar. Maybe I found your reactions so hysterical because I've worked in front of the camera for decades as an actor, and a host, so let me say welcome to the blooper club. I'm a charter member L O L. Your blooper reel left me wishing I could hit the thumbs up button 5 more times in a row and have it count! It was beautiful! 👍👍👍👍👍

    • @LouiseDeMasi
      @LouiseDeMasi  Před rokem +1

      Lol- Thank you for your message Tim, you made my day 😂! You know all too well the struggles that come with being in front of a camera. 🥴👍🏻

  • @charlottesmom
    @charlottesmom Před 8 měsíci

    Oh my gosh all these tips are so helpful to me as a very beginner watercolorist. Instant subscriber here!! ❤🎨

  • @I.M.SofaKingdom
    @I.M.SofaKingdom Před 5 dny

    I'm new to this, but I found this video extremely helpful, especially the paint removing techniques. I am trying to soften some areas of a landscape to add sun light, and I think the wet sponge is just what I need. Thanks a lot! New subscriber.

  • @977400Dana
    @977400Dana Před rokem

    As always, I love your excellent videos. I’ve painted for years but since I don’t paint that often, I feel I’m still a beginner. Thank you for sharing your expertise!❤

  • @NinaQueena
    @NinaQueena Před 10 měsíci

    Just find your channel and fall in love immediatly!!❤
    Love your art so much!!
    Greetings from Austria 🇦🇹