Step 1
Using a full sheet of Arches Cold Press watercolor paper, I first soaked the paper in water, then stapled it to a stiff backing board. Re-wetting the bottom half of the paper, I first layed in the lighter blues of the shadows and river, splattering with clear water as the wash began to dry.
Step 2
Next I painted the water using wet-into-wet washes allowing the pigments to mingle on the paper. The technique used in this area is what makes watercolor so unique. Finally I scumble the distant trees and shrubs using dry brush and the texture of the paper to create texture.
Step 3
Now I go to work on the shrubs, starting to model the shapes using both positive and negative painting techniques. I am also balancing warm and cool colors to keep the painting lively.
Step 4
I continue to work on the trees and bushes adding realism and detail. I darken some of the snow shadows to bring all the elements into the proper value relationships. I brought in more yellows and reds to warm up the painting “Icy River” 22 x 30 Transparent Watercolor by Roland Lee