Spring Washi Paintings

A few weeks ago I made a few more washi paper paintings. This time I used gouache instead of watercolour and opted for blind contour drawings while using pictures of seed pods as a reference.

Spring was on my mind. I've been spending many hours reading through my gardening books and magazines and dreaming of planting seeds and the first leaves poking through the soil.

Small Petals

Pod

Pod 2

I often feel a renewed sense of energy and creativity in the spring. I use brighter colours in my work and draw inspiration from the blossoms and bright green sprouting all around me.

Is your creativity renewed during a certain season?

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Washi Paper Paintings

This past winter I have really felt the cold and I find myself choosing to read or watch a movie in front of the fireplace in the evenings rather than working in my studio. My art time has then been limited to the coveted quiet/nap time in the afternoon. Working with natural light has helped both my mood and design but has meant that I have less art time each day. In my need to create and desire to accomplish something, I've been making very quick washi paper watercolour doodles.

I choose a palette of colours, pencil in a collection of swirls or an object and paint. The washi paper absorbs the watercolour and doesn't allow for much layering. The colours are surprisingly vibrant and it holds up to me adding ink once it's dry.

Round Legs

Diamonds

Anatomical Heart

I have found these quick paintings immensely satisfying and entirely fun. All too often I ponder and plan and I rarely just do and play.

Do you find more satisfaction in quick studies or large, planned projects?

...J