I always want to fill the paper with color and details when I paint. To leave some of the paper untouched and use negative painting is something I have to deliberately work at. There are plenty of studies that show that brain is very good at filling in the gaps of information -- but my brain needs to be reminded of that constantly when I am painting. In 'Birds', I experimented using bubble wrap, cardboard for pattern and texture. I started the painting in one of the classes I was taking but as usual I had a difficult time finishing it. I didn't know how to transfer the techniques demonstrated over to my painting. Slowly, over the course of a few weeks I defined and darkened a few shapes, and working hard at keeping the color and details to a minimum. I also learned to paint negatively. Even when it seems illogical, often less is more.
Birds watercolor 11x14"
