The Joy of Layering: Benzie's Watercolor and Pencil Technique

Creating art is a deeply personal journey, and for me, it’s a love affair with watercolor and pencil. Each piece I create is a testament to the beauty of layering, a technique that adds depth, texture, and emotion to my work. I want to share my excitement about this creative journey and how it helps me turn my ideas into realistic expressions.

The Allure of Watercolor

Watercolor is a medium that captivates me with its fluidity and unpredictability. The way the pigments blend and flow on paper is like a dance, each stroke revealing new possibilities. I adore the way watercolors can stir up a spectrum of feelings, from the gentle, peaceful shades of a calm scenery to the dynamic explosions of color in an energetic flower arrangement.

Embracing the Unpredictable

One of the most exciting aspects of working with watercolor is its inherent unpredictability. No two washes are ever identical, and this allows me to embrace spontaneity in my art. I often start with a light wash, letting the colors mingle and create soft backgrounds that serve as the foundation for my layers. This initial layer sets the tone for the entire piece, inviting me to explore further.

The Precision of Pencil

While watercolor offers freedom, pencil brings precision and control. I love the contrast between the two mediums. Pencils allow me to add intricate details and textures that can enhance the overall composition. Whether it's the intricate network of veins on a leaf or the faint shadows on a flower petal, pencil artistry enhances the authenticity, perfectly complementing the fluid nature of watercolor.

Layering Techniques

The magic of my art lies in the layering process. Here’s how I typically approach it:

1. Initial Wash: I begin with a light wash of watercolor to establish the mood and background. This layer is often soft and translucent, allowing the paper to show through.
2. Building Depth: Once the initial layer dries, I add more washes, gradually increasing the intensity of the colors. This step is crucial for creating depth and dimension. I often use a wet-on-dry technique, applying wet paint onto dry paper for sharper edges.
3. Adding Details: Once the layers of watercolor are set, I transition to using a pencil. This is where I can refine the details, adding texture and definition. I love using a range of pencil grades to create contrast, from soft, smudged lines to sharp, precise strokes.
4. Final Touches: The last layer is often a combination of both mediums. I may incorporate highlights using a white pencil or add splashes of watercolor for a vibrant impact. This final touch brings the artwork together, creating a harmonious blend of color and detail.

The Emotional Connection

Each artwork I create is more than just a visual representation; it’s an emotional journey. The layering process allows me to express my thoughts and feelings, often reflecting my state of mind at the time of creation. While constructing each layer, I become engrossed in the present, oblivious to the passage of time and finding comfort in the cadence of my brush and pencil.

Final Thoughts: An Ongoing Voyage.

My love for creating art with watercolor and pencil is a continuous journey of exploration and expression. The technique of layering not only boosts the aesthetic attractiveness of my creations, but also strengthens my bond with the art itself. Each piece tells a story, a moment captured in time, inviting viewers to experience the world through my eyes.