Painting quick figures in watercolor is a great way to improve your painting skills. I painted the father and 2 boys from a quick sketch done on location and photos that I took at the scene. I sometimes just use the back of old watercolor paintings or any scraps of paper. When you use scraps of used watercolor paper there is less pressure to paint a work of art. In your mind you may think “this is just a cheap piece of paper, no worries” and you are less apt to overwork the figures. With my illustration background I tend to work in a tighter, between the lines style. To loosen up and create more movement I paint these quick figures in watercolor.
Figures In Watercolor
In the photo above you can see my pencil sketch that I did on the paper. The 3 figures were all looking and pointing at kitesurfers that were preparing their boards at the local beach. We have been having a lot of wind lately so the kitesurfers have been out often. These 3 figures were walking in the surf and there was strong shadows. I used the angle of the beach and direction that they were walking as a diagonal line to create motion.
I painted quickly and tried not to draw or paint too many details. I used strong color and value on the quick figures and in the shadows. Lastly I used a spatter technique to add interest to the painting. I will probably paint this trio again for practice. Try painting these quick figures in watercolor to improve your work and create more dynamic paintings.
cant you help with ‘paint by number’ projects? for people who really do not have talent but can fill in spaces
Paint outside the lines. Bring a sketchbook when you go to your favorite place. Make a few drawings then add color.
The diagonal surf has indeed given motion effect,green color for water is expressing sea swell.painting may be quick but complete in details
Thanks for sharing
I did paint this quickly with as few strokes as possible, looking for more of a gesture and/or motion in the watercolor painting. Thanks for commenting.