WATERCOLOURS A Journey in Wonder
Starting with a two-week, intensive graphics training course with Mike Lin in Manhattan Kansas, the summer I turned 50, I have been exploring the use of watercolours. From ad hoc scenes to house portraits and historical sites, the subjects have all been experimental to some extent. Each has been stretching my limits and capabilities, and helping me to realize the power of paper absorbing colour. Results have been varied, some I like and some I don't; some have been hidden for months, others have been sold or given away; some have meaning and some are exploration. My journey is just beginning, the wonder is still there, my impatience is waning, and my interest is intensifying.
COVER: My second watercolour, in class with a Nebraskan artist at the Mike Lin studio, in Manhattan, KS. I call it 'Nebraska Homestead', it is my signature piece and the background for my business cards. 2001, 8x10
Homestead of my mother, in the small village of Denbigh, ON, about 160 km west of Ottawa. A pencil line drawing of this view was completed about 1969, this one in 2002. The house is gone, the property still in the family's hands, and the original on my mother's living room wall. Reprints have been given to several cousins. 2002, 8x10
House portrait, from the rear yard, of the home of friends in St Thomas, ON. As they retired, this was given as a gift from me and my wife, with copies to each of their five children. 2003, 11x17
House portrait, outside Blenheim, ON. A gift to the owner from his wife, a colleague of mine on the Communities In Bloom committee, it was mounted and framed for display in this century-old homestead where the owner was raised. 2008, 18x24
My first ever watercolour, in class with a Nebraskan artist at the Mike Lin studio, 2001, 8x10
House portrait, part of a much larger picture, in Thamesville, ON. The Beech tree, a very prominent feature of the property, was dying and scheduled to be removed. The portrait sjowed the tree, house, and gardens, in posterity. 2004, about 12x20 of the 24x36 painting
Illustration of a landscape plan for a nursery, given to the owner as part of the design process. 2004, 8x10
One of my early attempts at the BC landscape, this incomplete version of a seaside view has been enhanced and added to. 2010, 8x10
Another 'study', this time on rocks and mountain backdrops, perhaps a half hour spent on this one. First sketched with pen, the colours were added in a rush and just for fun. 2010, 4"x8"
From the imagination, a waterfront scene from the water, reminiscent of either the east or west coast of Canada. Again, rushed to suit the time available, and 'just for fun'. 2010, 6"x18"
Willistead Manor, Windsor, ON. Completed and donated as a raffle item, part of a 50th anniversary celebration of the New Apostolic Church in Windsor. 2010, 8x10
Overview of the display and celebration area of Talbot Trail Place, a community-developed public park space in Blenheim, Ontario. Constructed perspective. Watercolour, pen, 11x17, 2011
View from the display and celebration area of Talbot Trail Place, a community-developed public park space in Blenheim, Ontario. Constructed perspective. Watercolour, pen, 11x17, 2011
Five seconds of absolutely no-talent guesswork - original is about 20 mm square! Watercolour on Masa paper, 2016.
