Breezy

When I visited the heronry this past spring, it was early in the nesting season. Many of the Great Blue Herons that I photographed were either preening in the treetops or simply enjoying the breeze. I love how this one's breeding plumage is blown every which way.

My watercolors begin with a loose and expressive under painting, followed by a “mapping” of the darkest shapes. I work around the page in many transparent layers, considering shape, hue, temperature and value. Details are slowly depicted with more precision until I am satisfied that I've captured the essence of the subject, the moment in time. I prefer high key paintings and soft colors that evoke pleasant feelings.