paper

So, really starting to become intrigued with watercolor paper. (From 90-140 lb. so far.) Amazing what difference the paper can make. One of my favorites at the moment is hand-made Punjabi paper from India. Pricey (at $40 a journal), but I've been buying it at 40% off which brings it down to a reasonable price range.

paper surface

not my photo, but typical result (so fun!)

portraiture

Ventured into portraiture today... first one ever in watercolor. (Worked from photo to avoid drawing errors.) Very happy with result for my 1st attempt!

original photo from Alyssas's fb page

first layer of washes

modeling tones / adding darks

finished painting