Girls from Bhutan

Here are a set of pictures showing you the process and camera setting for the latest watercolor.I am using a mic stand with a phone clamp to shoot the video.

#watercolor, #process,

 

Creation begins with an act of destruction

I created this video as a source of inspiration for fellow artists, encouraging them to venture beyond their artistic comfort zones. The act of painting over an existing piece may appear counterproductive to some, especially considering the time and effort invested in the original artwork, which may have seemed satisfactory. However, personal satisfaction was paramount to me. I couldn't endorse something that fell short of my own standards. I believe that true bravery lies in not treating our work as precious gems, but rather as steps toward continuous improvement. Each time I've mustered the courage to move beyond mere "good," I've uncovered something even better.

Re-Do a doo doo

 You know what they say: "If at first, you don't succeed, try, try again." That's exactly what happened with an earlier version of this painting. I just couldn't quite get it to match my vision, and it left me feeling unsatisfied.

But hey, sometimes the missing puzzle piece is right under your nose. In my case, it was discovering watercolor paper made from 100% cotton. It might sound like a small detail, but let me tell you, it made all the difference in the world.

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty. Here are some process steps I took to make this art piece come to life

 I'm all about sharing the behind-the-scenes action of my art on Instagram, and that's where the magic happens. Customers slide into my DMs, asking if certain pieces are up for grabs.

Now, this particular painting? A super keen patron snagged it before it could even make its grand entrance. Talk about a quick draw, right?

I've got to say, I'm pretty darn grateful for these opportunities. See, when one of my pieces finds a new home, it frees me up to dive into a fresh canvas. It's like a perpetual art adventure, and I'm loving every stroke of it!

 

 I painted this watercolor, but it never made it to the big show. Do you know why? Well, 'cause the moment I finished it, a client swooped in like a superhero and said, "I'll take it!"

But wait, it's not your typical art transaction. Nope, this client was an absolute sweetheart. They bought it because they knew their sister would go bananas over it and wanted to surprise her for her birthday. Isn't that just the coolest thing? Making art that spreads smiles is where it's at!  #watercolor #spain

 Alrighty then, let's take a trip back to spring 2018 when I jetted off to Seville, Spain for the April Fair, aka "Le Feria de Abril."

Now, Madrid was my stomping ground growing up, but believe it or not, I'd never experienced this week-long shindig before. Fate had a wicked sense of humor though, 'cause I only had a measly day to cram it all in.

I went a little snap-happy and clocked in around 2500 pictures. But out of that frenzy, there emerged this gem of a painting – my first one from the batch. It had this sweet moment of two people holding hands that I just had to immortalize on canvas.

When it came to painting, I thought, "Why not live a little?" So, I decided to ditch the rigid style and went for a more relaxed vibe with my brushwork. After all, when you're in Spain, you've got to embrace the spontaneity and zest of the place, right? 

 

I HAVE A YOUTUBE CHANNEL

6/18/2021 8:37:22 AM

I decided to start a YouTube channel to provide some tips on how I create my artwork and a little behind-the-scenes to how I work. The first few weeks I thought I would try to learn from the Great Masters. My first choice was John Singer Sargent.#Johnsingersargent

The original Master copy is available for $250

https://youtu.be/c-w5vr04kgw

 

A MASTER COPY OF ALPHONSE MUCHA'S "CLIO"

 So, picture this: I'm on a wild exploration journey, diving deep into the universe of Alphonse Mucha, a true legend in my book. As I wandered through his masterpieces, I stumbled upon this gem of an image that sparked an artistic itch in me – could I recreate it? Challenge accepted.

Now, have you ever had music hit you so hard, you're practically frozen in time? No words, just this intense surge of emotion that locks you in a state of pure elation? Well, that's exactly what happened when I locked eyes on this illustration. There's this inexplicable "something" – an emotional symphony – that reaches out and grabs you. His expression, the elegance of his hands, and even the way he seems to float on air – it's like Mucha orchestrated a visual masterpiece that refuses to be ignored.

From the subtle toss of his hair to those playful clouds dancing around him, and don't even get me started on that artistic drapery wizardry – each brushstroke is a note in a grand symphony that has left me absolutely awestruck. It's like holding your breath, as if exhaling might mean missing a stroke of genius. Ever listened to Mozart or Vivaldi? It's that kind of attention-demanding brilliance that sweeps you into its embrace, leaving behind your worries like old news. For a brief, wonderful moment, it's just you and the sublime.

Oh, and guess what? I've got the grand unveiling coming up – a YouTube video showing  how i created it. So stay tuned, my creative compadres, it's about to be one heck of a ride! 🎨🎶

 

MUCHA AND SO MUCH MORE

I ran across this great site that not only has a ton of information on Mucha but has also a great deal of insightful information on another artist that might interest you. Take a look!

https://poulwebb.blogspot.com/2013/04/alphonse-mucha-part-10.html?spref=tw

 

SITTING BY THE DUNE

Originally posted on my website: 4/20/2022 

Ever have those "whoops, I forgot to upload" moments? Yep, I'm guilty too, and this right here is Exhibit A. As I dive into a little artistic introspection, I've come to realize something intriguing. Some of my all-time faves are those babies that practically leap onto the canvas, no sweat required. And this creation right here? Oh, it's definitely in that cool club.

Ready for the good stuff? Brace yourself for some close-ups that'll give you an insider's look at the magic. But hey, the party doesn't stop there. If you're up for a virtual hangout, I've got a little video waiting for you over at: [insert that super long Instagram link you've got there].

So, there you have it – a sneak peek into the world of "I-forgot-to-upload-but-I've-got-something-cool-to-make-up-for-it." Dive in, enjoy, and let's keep the artistic vibes rolling!

 

SMART COOKIE

Originally posted on my website: 4/20/2022 

I had the privilege of taking these pictures of a young attorney graduating this spring. Her future is bright!

The pictures were again a challenge as the day was cold for April. Francesca was a trooper and a total joy to work with. She brought that energy and attitude you can't fake. If you know of anyone looking for a photoshoot, please let them know about me! 

Thank you

https://www.instagram.com/carlos_taylor_photography/

~Carlos