Getting Started on Vellum

Getting Started on Vellum

“What is vellum anyway?” is a question I hear frequently when showing my paintings, since most of them are on Kelmscott vellum. I thought I would briefly answer that question, and then give some basics on preparing it for painting as a way of introducing you to this material. So what is vellum? Vellum, also […]

The Awkward Stage

The Awkward Stage

My paintings always seem to go through an awkward stage…sort of like adolescence. At this stage, things are not in balance yet, the painting’s full character has not yet been revealed. Will it fulfill the dreams I had for it or does the path I’ve set it on lead to disaster…? Only time will tell. […]

Some More Little Things I’ve Learned

Some More Little Things I’ve Learned

Here are some more little things I’ve learned over the past year. Since graduating from SBA two years ago, most of my work has been on vellum, but I rediscovered the pleasure of watercolor washes on paper while working on a commission this autumn. For those unfamiliar with vellum, it is a type of parchment […]

Some Little Things I’ve Learned

Some Little Things I’ve Learned

Now, at the tail end of winter, is my last chance to pause and look back before the spring rush of bursting buds and new growth keep me busy painting my chosen beauties in their moment of glory.  I wanted to briefly pause to note of a few little things I have learned over the […]

How to Get Rich Color Quickly Workshop

How to Get Rich Color Quickly Workshop

On a typically drizzly, bleak Oregon winter day, we sat in a warm, comfortable studio and painted brightly colored, exotic orchids under the tutelage of Heeyoung Kim. She had asked us each to create a drawing before the workshop of a deep pink or purple orchid with relatively few markings or a similar blossom. We […]