We’ll go to the dark side as we paint these bright and colorful koi against a dark water background. First we’ll shape the fish using colorful shadows, adding the dark and red markings later. Then we’ll learn to mix a “colorful” transparent black, lifting the light swirls out of it. This is a subject we haven’t painted before, and I look forward to teaching the techniques. A 9x12 outline will be provided for you to trace so we can get started painting quickly. Come have fun and learn new techniques! Reddi Arts has a list of my recommended supplies. Just ask at the front counter. Student grade paints are not recommended...they are cheap for a reason (I’m looking at you Cotman!) Buy quality paints as they are worth it. Cheap ones will only discourage you! Tube paints are preferred as opposed to dry cakes, but they will work if you have them. I use M. Graham watercolors, but Daniel Smith, Holbein, and many others are fine. Reddi Arts now carries M. Graham.
Supply list for class
MUST HAVE:
We are going to mix our own deep black using Ultramarine Blue and Burnt Sienna. Tube paints will be needed to do this. I use M Graham that ReddiArts carries. If using pan paints, a tube of Ivory or Lamp black will suffice. It will be difficult to use pan paints to create a dark blac.
Cadmium Orange
Cadmium Red
PLUS ANY OTHER COLORS YOU USUALLY HAVE
Brushes and Other Supplies:
Holbein Gold #10 and #12 Round brushes are perfect for this painting.
Bring any brushes you have, a variety of round brushes between 2 and 12.
Holbein Gold a fine brand. Remember, the best brushes hold a lot of water! We always use the largest brush for the task at hand.
• A large mixing pallet made for watercolors. One with individual wells for paint, and large area for mixing are the best. Container(s) for water.
• Our painting is 9x12, so a 11x14 or 16x20 COLD PRESS watercolor pad (300lb or 140lb), or a half-sheet (15x22) of COLD PRESS WATERCOLOR PAPER. 300lb or 140lb. Make sure it is 100% cotton. Do not use Canson paper!
• If not using a pad, you MUST have a hard support to tape your paper to. Gatorboard is best, but a sheet of masonite or any hard surface will work too.
• You’ll need something to prop up your board at an angle. A roll of paper towels works, which you’ll need anyhow.
• You’ll also need one sheet of black or gray non-wax graphite paper to transfer your provided outline onto your watercolor paper. Bring a pen to trace, and a pencil for sketching. 2B is best.
Bring your lunch and several drinks for the day.
