Seaside Watercolour

This book on watercolour techniques helps readers to learn to paint with watercolours from scratch and step by step. Inspired to paint by long walks along the seashore, the beauty of coastal landscapes and by the photographs taken during these journeys or found in journals and magazines, the author decided to leave her job in the fashion industry and devote herself completely to acquiring an in-depth knowledge of watercolour techniques to express her deep love of nature. The present book is a result of the author’s many painting experiments and her teaching experience. First, the book introduces the reader to painting tools, such as different paper and brush types; then the author describes, step-by-step and in detail, all the rich effects that can be achieved thanks to the specific characteristics of watercolours. She then moves on to the basics of composition and perspective, how to establish the correct proportions, rhythm, and a relationship and equilibrium between the different parts of an image. In the last part, the author shows in all variations how to work on different motifs, including stones above and below the water and boats, waves and foam, the sky and the different kinds of clouds. After a wealth of technical tips, the author offers practical recommendations, for example, the importance of having a small dedicated space, always ready with materials to begin to paint when you want it; drawing every day even if it’s just for a short time; and setting a timer for 10 minutes, practicing time-limited sketches. At the end, the author recognizes that her development required patient yet playful repetition and the ability to see mistakes as a chance to learn more, while carefully observing how more experienced artists paint, to learn from them. After acquiring the essential knowledge and techniques the book offers, readers will most certainly begin to develop their own personal style, getting more and more pleasure immersing themselves in the magical world of watercolours.