Brenda Swenson

Watercolor Workshop in Southern France!

2012-01-20T10:19:00.000-08:00

Would you like to join me in Southern France? Enjoy daily sketching and painting adventures, culture, food, wine…and people of the Languedoc region while staying in the historic Montfaucon residence, the recently remodeled 800-year-old medieval building on the river Aude in downtown Limoux. The dates are June 23rd to Saturday July 7th, 2012.

My Teaching Approach
I encourage a build-up of sketches and painting ideas – not sitting all day in one spot. I move you along frequently, partially to show you lots of lovely locations, but also to stop you from overworking an image. Travel workshops are not as intensive as studio workshop courses. You are on vacation too, and it is important to relax, enjoy and see something of the country you are visiting, therefore painting sessions are daily, but always optional. You will have opportunity to paint as much or as little as you like. Our painting sessions are generally more structured in the mornings, with demonstrations, then time for you to sketch/paint, while I work with you, helping individually. Afternoons can be more relaxed. Every few days, I suggest a critique, to see what each other has been producing, ask advice and exchange techniques and ideas.I encourage all levels of ability and confidently teach complete beginners to professional artists – this way you can learn from each other, which creates a great stimulus for everyone.

Each morning after breakfast we will either set out to our painting destination or stay at Montfaucon or in Limoux for lessons and or studio work. We incorporate sight-seeing opportunities and historic sites into our daily outings whenever possible. In the evening there will be time to relax before we have dinner. Each Wednesday you will have the day free to do what you wish. There will not be transportation provided on that day and you will be on your own for the evening meal. We are happy to provide you with suggestions for things to do on your free day or if you would just like to relax around Montfaucon you are welcome to do so. The weather in June and July is usually very pleasant and warm. However, Limoux is situated in a micro-climate between the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees, which can cause the weather to change very quickly. It is advisable to dress in layers and don’t forget your bathing suit for a visit to the seaside. Also make sure to bring a few nice outfits for dinner.

Workshop Package
* Pick up and delivery from Toulouse airport or Carcassone train station.
* Accomidations-All rooms are double occupancy. The rooms are very spacious with two separate beds for individuals and large king size beds for couples.
*14 breakfasts. The breakfasts are served at the hotel/residence.
*12 dinners. We have 3-5 dinners at Montfaucon, prepared by our chef, and the balance of the dinners at restaurants in the region. We will try to accommodate special diets if given sufficient notice.
*Overnight stay in the seaside village of Collioure.
*Anytime use of our professionally designed art studio, campstools and chairs for painting outside, easels, painting tables, water containers and bottles.
*Guide with knowledge and history of the area.
*Daily transportation to all of our painting sites, except Wednesdays.
*Admission to historic and cultural sites.
*Montfaucon is fully equipped with a computer/printer and fax/scanner for guest use, and with in-room internet access for those who bring their own computers. *Program Cost: $4100/person (airfare not included) Click for Brochure

Click here to see pictures of trip

If you would like to know more please contact me by email Swensonsart@gmail.com

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Searching for the Perfect Sketchbook

2012-01-10T08:37:00.000-08:00

In 2008 I purchased my first Moleskine and took it home. In the pouch pocket I found a pamphlet that spoke of Europe and a history with Van Gogh, Picasso, Hemingway… I liked the idea of working in a sketchbook that had a history built on tradition. I was under the assumption it was made in Italy. Imagine my surprise when I took off the colored band and found very small type that said "Designed by Moleskine in Italy - Manufactured in China”.

First of all I use Moleskines because the book feels of quality, pages lay flat with stitch binding, cover is study (protects artwork inside), travel friendly…Some of my greatest travel adventures and sketches are contained in the pages of these books. For years I used the “sketchbook” for my travel journals. The pages are crème colored and slick, perfect for pen work but watercolor slides off. They only make the watercolor sketchbook in a landscape format. It is either too small or too big. I became determined to have the watercolor book in the normal format and size (8.25x 5.0 inches open to 8.25x 10.) which would fit into my travel purse. What I did was the unthinkable...I purchased the large watercolor sketchbook and took the band-saw to it. What I ended up with is the perfect sketchbook! I wish the company would make the book with watercolor paper and in the normal format (not landscape) and a decent size....but in the mean time, a girl must do what a girl must do...BZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
And by the way, the book I cut in half is the one I took to Italy last summer. So I can honestly say “Made in Italy”.

I am constantly searching for the perfect sketchbook to use as my travel journal. Recently I have been in contact with a new company and they are sending me a book to try. I won’t mention any names at this point but if I like it I’ll surely let you know.

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Sketching the Rose Parade Floats, again!

2012-01-02T15:05:00.000-08:00

The Rose Parade has rolled down Colorado Blvd in Pasadena CA, the Stealth Bomber has flown over the Rose Bowl to kick off the football game (and also passed over my house). I don't think I will ever get used to seeing that plane or the rumble it creates when it flies over! All that is left is wonderful memories and sketches of the Rose Parade floats.

Judy Schroeder and I went through the procedures of making phone calls, getting permission, checking in, getting I.D. bracelets...but it was worth it!
We spent an entire day sketching. We visited two float locations.The first building was very challenging to say the least. The floats still had a masses amount of work to be done and the scaffolding obscured most views. I sat in an area I thought would be protected and still get a view. Volunteers were working above me and I constantly got showered with little pieces of greenery. The second location was much better. Most of the scaffolding was down and we had great views of the floats. My only error was sitting where walking tours came by every 10 minutes. Most of the people thought we were there as part of the tour. One of the tour guides starting pointing us out and said "here are the resident artists" Judy has kept a list of the questions we were asked.
What are you doing? Are you in a class? Why do you do this? Are you selling your sketches? Are you designing next years float?...All in all it was fun and I don't mind the questions.The theme for this years parade Rose Parade was "Just Imagine...".
I look forward to sketching the 124th Rose Parade next time it rolls into town!

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Sketching the Rose Parade Floats

2011-12-29T10:17:00.000-08:00

In 2001 a friend and I tested our luck to see if we could get into the largest Rose Parade Float building barn. Mind you this was 2001 and only a few months earlier was 9/11. The level of security was very high! We knew we would have a hard time getting access on the main floor but we came prepared with patience, smiles, good cheer, and a massive amount of pleading, flirting, and begging. Eventually we were given I.D. bracelets and a long verbal list of don’ts. Once we got inside the building I could feel the energy and excitement as the Rose Parade was only 2 days away. People were gluing flowers, seeds, and spices, cutting stems off strawflowers, sticking vial with water into the float frame to hold roses, moving scaffolding... People looked like little specks climbing all over the floats. The P.A system was constantly calling a “Float Chief” to an area. Judging was going on.
The energy in the building was magical! Immediately we tucked into any space we could find. If we were in the way they’d ask us to leave. It wasn’t easy!!! There is so much going…I had to constantly duck, lean, and dodge someone or something! Sometimes it is very hard to even see the float through the scaffolding and people working.
And I loved every minute!!!!
I have had many fun experiences over the last 9 years. I was interviewed and ended up on the 5:00 O’clock news, people beg me to sketch their float, and I’ve done the illustration design for my towns float (South Pasadena). It was used by the float builder and was published in the souvenir magazine that was sold in local stores and along the parade route.
I can’t wait till tomorrow when I sketch the floats, again!

Happy New Year and Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Merry Christmas

2011-12-19T19:14:00.001-08:00

Play with Your Food!

2011-12-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

I was looking through my sketchbooks and realized I sketch food a lot. I was
trying to figure out why do I do this? A few things came to mind.

Shape Variety:
Man made to organic shapes. I have lots to select from…dishes, serving utensils, fruit, veggies…
Colors:
Plates can be decorative, fruits and vegetables can be very colorful to plain.
Readily available:
I prefer to sketch from life. I can simply go the kitchen and grab something.
Waiting Time: Make use of time sitting at a restaurant table waiting. Draw your cup of coffee, salt and pepper shakers, basket of bread, menu…
Delayed Gratification:
That’s right…don’t eat it, till you draw it. It will put a fire in your belly to hurry up.

The final thought that came to mind is this. As a child meal time was very strict and not much fun. Perhaps this is my way of playing with my food. So here and now I am giving you permission. Play with your food!
Happy Sketching! Brenda

Windstorm

2011-12-04T18:41:00.000-08:00

In the early morning hours of December 1st we experienced what is called a “Windstorm”. It turned out to be the biggest windstorm to hit Southern California in 35 years. Only a few miles from my home was the epicenter. We had constant winds ranging from 40-60mph with gusts clocked at 97mph. All night long we saw burst of light fill the sky from transformers exploding and terrible sounds as my 107 year old house groaned and shook from the strain of the winds. The morning light revealed what looked like a tornado-trees on
houses and cars, broken windows, power lines down and debris everywhere.

High winds forced Pasadena officials to close public schools and declare a state of emergency. Most of the nearby communities are overwhelmed and can't remove all the debris from the streets. City workers cut up the trees just enough to push the debris to the side of the road. The private tree trimming companies can't keep up either, just not enough equipment. Almost every block has trees down and tons of broken branches, leaves, and houses and cars under massive trees. We had 4 crushed cars within a block of our house. We are very lucky to have power restored, as most people don't.

Sunday morning we attended worship at 9:15. As I expected there wasn't power there either. The inside of the sanctuary was dimly lit with candles, and the air was cool and crisp (around 48 degrees). The air may have been cool but the atmosphere was warm and friendly. The feeling in the room was that of joy and gratitude. We had all been through the storm together.

We are among the lucky ones who sustained no damage. We have much to be grateful for.

Brenda

Watercolor on Mi-Teintes

2011-11-29T09:09:00.000-08:00

I keep a selection of tinted papers in my sketchbook. The paper I use most often is the Mi-Teintes by Canson. It is a pastel paper. The paper has a large content of cotton and handles very much like a piece of 90lb watercolor paper. The colors I like are warm tones and neutral (crème and grays).

A few things to keep in mind when working on a tinted surface…your watercolors will look very different, especially if you use transparent watercolor. The paint will be influenced by the tint of the paper. And use less water so the paper doesn’t buckle too much. Since the paper is tinted you will have no whites to bring a sparkle. I don’t always feel adding white is necessary. I have a small lip gloss container filled with permanent white gouache in my sketch set-up. I don’t keep it on my palette as it dries quickly and becomes useless.

Right now I imagine a few watercolorists are raising their brow when they heard, “WHITE PAINT”. In many circles this is a NO, NO! Well guess what? In my sketchbook anything goes. Here is where I am free to play and break all the rules. Oh what fun!

The last sketch was done on Mulberry paper. Yeah....I'll paint on just about anything. Go ahead give yourself permission to play. You just might love it!

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Cinque Terre

2011-11-17T16:08:00.000-08:00

I was in Cinque Terre, 2 months ago. Today I learned of a flash flood in the villages of Cinque Terre. Two of the historic little villages (Vernazza & Monterosso) are damaged terribly from walls of water ripping through the tiny streets. Many lives have been lost. How sad all of this makes me feel.

My trip in late August was a saving grace after a very painful 6 weeks with a pinched nerve in my neck. A month before the trip was so bad I couldn't sketch at all. After many weeks of therapy, 8 x-rays, an MRI, muscle injections, and an epidural I was good to go!

The real cure came while I was in Cinque Terre. Sketching with the warm sun on my back, relaxing strolls, hiking... I felt as if my body had been restored. I stayed in the lovely little village of Corniglia in an apartment that over looked the sea. Each day I explored one of the 5 villages.

I will remember the little villages as I sketched them. And I will remain grateful for the time I had in this beautiful region of Italy.

Brenda

Reflections of Italy...

2011-11-16T11:40:00.000-08:00

As promised I am posting addition images of my sketch journal and photos from Tuscany. I have scanned my travel journal, sorted photos, and sent copies to workshop participants. I had a couple delays along the way in trying to get this completed. It is amazing how so many projects can need my attention all at once! But at last I am back and eager to share.

In my last post about Tuscany I shared images from before the workshop while I sketched in Cinque Terre. The images I am sharing now are part of the workshop. We spent 10 days in a lovely Tuscan farmhouse in the hills of Lucca. The location was charming, relaxing, inspiring and just all around perfect! I had a wonderful group of participants and we became friends in a short period of time. We traveled to little villages during the day to paint, had authentic Italian cooking lessons, went to a Puccini concert, painted our own Italian influenced plate...and so much more. I teach workshops in Europe each summer but something was extra special about this group.

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Sketch for you!

2011-10-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

I have dozens of watercolor sketchbooks…and I love these books!!! When I sketch I feel freer than when I am working on a larger painting in my studio. Sketching feels like playtime. I sketch for me and paint for others. I paint for national shows, galleries, commissions… Many of my paintings have won awards and earned me signature membership in watercolor societies. After all the purpose of a painting is to been shown and for that reason I feel more inhibited. My sketchbooks mean more to me than any painting I’ve ever done. I am not afraid to try new mediums, techniques, subjects and I can see tangible growth in my work. Within the covers of these books I can see my life. Here is where I am free to express myself with words and images. The pages contain the ups and downs of my life. No painting can do that for me.

With each new sketchbook I wonder where it will lead me, and what lessons I will learn along the way. The first page of a new sketchbook feels a little unnerving and the last page feels a little sad...like the end of a friendship.

Don’t worry about what other people think…sketch for you!

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Workshop at Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff

2011-10-20T10:44:00.000-07:00

Home again, home again!

Late Monday night I returned from a wonderful week in Boone, North Carolina.

One of the great joys of traveling across the United States is getting to see my ole friend Joe Miller (Cheap Joe himself). He is a warm, generous, and a very caring person. We have been friends through some very tough times in our lives. I could always count on him to offer words of encouragement and hopes for a better day. I only hope I have been half the friend to him that he has been for me.

I think this was one of the best workshops yet and for sure some of the nicest people around! The workshop facility is the BEST! Everyone has there own table, I have an over head mirror for demos and every day we had a new goodie on our table (me too!). I had a large workshop with 25 people. They were a very enthusiastic group and 15 signed up for the 75 Day Sketch Challenge! Edwina took care of all the details to made the workshop run seamlessly…she is amazing!

Two years ago when I scheduled this workshop I hoped it would correspond with the height of fall colors…I wasn’t disappointed! My daily commute (1.5 miles) was filled with glorious colors that would make any artists heart leap for joy. Even the view out the workshop window was amazing. Eye candy to the artist! You have to understand I’ve lived my entire life in Southern California…we don’t have colors like that here!

There is something about Southern charm and hospitality that just makes a person feel down right welcome. I can’t wait to return in 2013.

I couldn't resist the chance to do one last sketch before heading to the airport and heading home.
Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Heading to Cheap Joe's Art Stuff

2011-10-07T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have only been home a few weeks and I am packing my art supplies and suitcases again!

I am on my way to Boone, North Carolina to teach at Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff. I am teaching a 5-day "Watercolor Sketching Techniques" workshop and I have a full class with 25 people! I am gonna be one tired girl at the end of each day.

They have the best classroom set-up I have ever seen. Everyone has there own real art desk to themselves and every morning new goodies to try out. I have a overhead mirror for demos and a wonderful crew to help out.They even have lunch catered! What a wonderful place to teach, sketch and just have a good ole time. One of my students came in early one morning and made balloon hats for everyone.

Last time Joe (Cheap Joe himself) and I had the best day ever. He took me to all his favorite spots to sketch. We finished off the day having lunch at the Boone Pharmacy. This is where he worked as a pharmacist before turning his time and talents to art and creating Cheap Joe's Art Stuff . He is a darn good artist, too! He has a book called Joe's Journals, the art and tales of a sojourner. I bought his book years before I meet
him. His book is a real jewel!

He was a lot of fun and a true Southern gentleman. I hope you enjoy a few sketches from our time together.

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Learning & Product EXPO

2011-10-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite events is coming up the end of October!

I will be teaching four classes at the Learning & Product EXPO, October 28-30, in Pasadena, CA at the Pasadena Convention Center. This is a fun filled weekend with classes of every kind. The convention hall will be filled with art material suppliers of every kind-Holbein, Winsor & Newton, Daniel Smith, da Vinci, Canson... Lots of great deals on paint, paper, brushes, easels, and more! You can register on-line at: www.learningproductexpo.com or call: (626) 689-2690

Class Descriptions below:

Negative Painting with Watercolor (3 Hour)
Friday afternoon: Class code Fr251

Negative painting is an exciting approach to watercolor! It is the technique of painting around a subject to describe it in your painting. Discover how to simply suggest shapes and not overwork a painting. In this class you’ll learn how to recognize and develop negative shapes, expand your understanding of paint characteristics (transparent, opaque, granulating…), glazing techniques and how to create beautiful under paintings. Students will benefit from informative demonstrations, and one on one help. Supplies provide by HK Holbein.

Watercolor Sketching Techniques (3 Hour)
Saturday morning: Class code Sa102

Enjoy the charming, loose and colorful nature of watercolor at its best, while sketching! Sharpen your observation skills, color awareness and design principles. Explore various sketching tools and techniques. Learn how a sketch can be complete in itself, or a road map to larger studio paintings. Whether you want to improve your drawing skills, watercolor awareness, or take that next step as an artist you will come away from this class excited and inspired about your artwork. Benefit from demonstrations, encouragement and one-on-one help. Supplies provide by HK Holbein.

The Watercolorists’ Sketch Journal (3 Hour)
Saturday afternoon: Class code Sa251

Sketch journaling is the creative process of pulling together words and images on a page. In the class we will explore fun and exciting ways to be expressive with words, watercolor, and ink. Whether you are interested in creating a sketch journal for travel, gardening, daily life…amazing things happen when you put images and words together. You will come away from the class excited, inspired with your work, and a sketch journal uniquely your own. Benefit from demonstrations, encouragement, and one on one help. Supplies provide by HK Holbein.

Negative Painting and Beyond with Watercolor- Intermediate level (6 hour class) Sunday, All-Day: Class code Su102

Discover the dynamic results of negative painting! Simplify color theory and learn how to enrich your works with rich, loose and glowing colors. Learn how to gain control over the medium of watercolor by building an understanding of glazing, wet into wet, charging colors and more! Discover techniques for creating greater edge qualities with lost edges, overlapping, and interlocking shapes. Learn to be inventive and take your painting to the next level. Students will benefit from informative demonstrations, and one on one help. Supplies provide by HK Holbein.

Happy Painting!
Brenda

Reflections of Italy

2011-09-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Before I move on to the next stage of my journey in Italy let me talk a little about my tools and materials. Over the years I have learned less is better. The burden of lugging heavy or cumbersome supplies can take the joy out of any adventure. Easels are not needed for sketching. As for a sketching stool, Italy is pedestrian friendly which means I can usually find a bench or shady corner to tuck into. If I can’t find a place to sit I am likely to seek out an outdoor café. I always enjoy a gelato or cappuccino while I sketch.

During the days we explored the villages of Cinque Terre I traveled very light and carried minimal art supplies. If it didn’t fit in my purse I left it behind. In side my purse I had a sketchbook, small palette, water-brush, waterproof pen, camera, girly stuff, and Euro. I enjoyed the freedom of not be bogged down with stuff. I had so much fun exploring the tiny villages, sketching, hiking, shopping, dinning, and riding the train.

…next time I’ll share sketching and exploring Tuscany!

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Reflections of Italy

2011-09-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

Home again, Home again!

I have been to Italy four times before... but something was extra special about this trip. I don’t know if it was my physical need of relaxation (to recharge and heal from a recent neck injury), people, food, location or all of the above.

Five days before my workshop began I spent time in the Liguria region of Northern Italy. I enjoyed sketching, hiking, relaxing, eating and sightseeing. I traveled with a good friend/family member, Sheryle. Our destination was the quaint area called, Cinque Terre (5 hill town on the sea). I have been to this area twice before but only on day trips. We stayed in the middle village called Corniglia.

We stayed at Le Terrazze. Our apartment was amazing in every way. Each of our bedrooms had dark green shuttered doors that opened onto a balcony over looking the aqua blue sea to one side and to the right buildings of yellow, peach, and tan dotted against the terraced hillside. Each morning I woke to the sound of church bells playing a hymn. It felt like heaven!

Each day we chose a different village to explore. Some days we hiked and the day we were too sore from the prior days hike we took the train. The hike from Corniglia to Manarola was hot and long and not for the faint of heart…not only was it a “bun buster” but the path was narrow, steep and a slip could be fatal. We visited all five villages (Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso) and my sketchbook was my constant companion.The colors of the region are like eye candy to the artist. I am in the process of scanning my sketchbook journal from the trip and I can’t wait to share it!

On the 6th day we said good bye to our charming little apartment and boarded the train for Pisa. Here we were met by our bus driver Beppe and other members of our group. We traveled by mini-bus (forty-five minutes) to the hill town of Lucca. For the next 11 days was stayed in a beautifully restored 15th century farmhouse named Selva…

I hate to leave you hanging but it was too great of a journey to share all at once. I will share pictures and sketches next time. Stay turned!

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Tuscany En Plein Air

2011-08-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

To my Fellow Artists and Friends,

Only a couple more hours and I leave for the airport. I am off to Tuscany for a wonderful mini vacation and then a workshop.

I will staying in a lovely restore farmhouse name Selva in the hills of Lucca. I can hardly wait to board the plane...life has been hectic to say the least. I can't wait to spend leisurely days sketching in Cinque Terre, small villas, street cafes, tiny villages...

Cinque Terre
This is my third trip to this area of Italy and I never tire of the friendly, people, quaint towns, amazing food, age old traditions and ample locations to paint! I love teaching workshops here!

When I return I will share photos of the workshop group, sketches and tales of our adventure.
In the meantime I hope you enjoy a few my sketches from my last workshop at Abbodanza Toscana
Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Villa Maoinchi

Villa garden in the walled city of Lucca

Watercolor Artist Magazine

2011-08-16T10:19:00.000-07:00

Forgive me for the shameless plug...but I just received my copy of Watercolor Artist Magazine (October issue)! I have a complete demonstration on the technique of negative painting in the Creativity Workshop column.

I am delighted to be featured in this wonderful magazine dedicated to the beauty and education of watercolor. I hope you will give it a peek.

Happy Painting!
Brenda

8/25/2011 Watercolor Artist magazine just posted a portion of the article on line. You are invited to try your hand at negative painting and submit for free subscription, North Light book money... and more. Please read for complete details. ~Brenda

Rejection to Self Conviction

2011-08-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Rejection from a show is a very touchy thing for most artists. When I first began entering shows a rejection notice would send me off moping for days. I felt as if the wind was knocked out of me. It would take a week before I felt like picking up the brush again. The feeling of hurt and rejection was overwhelming. My husband began to dread me entering shows…I can see why!

About 10 years ago my education and understanding of how certain shows are judged was increased when I served a two year term as the Exhibition Director of the National Watercolor Society. The society is one of the highest rated associations in the watercolor community. The annual international exhibition is selected with the greatest of integrity. The first year I had an eye opening experience. I sat in the room while the 3 judges selected the show. The judges viewed paintings projected on a screen. No talking is allowed and the judges vote yes or no with a device. No one knew how the other was voting. On this day the judges had to select 100 paintings from over 1300 entries. It is a very long day. In the first round of viewing all the painting more than half were rejected. How long do you think the judges viewed each painting, 2 minutes, 5 minutes…? How about an average of less than 10 seconds! My painting was rejected in the first round, and my heart sank.

That evening I cried and I poured out my heart out to my husband. Through Mike’s great wisdom, understanding, and love I came to realize I was giving ultimate power to others to determine how I felt about my artwork. From that day forward I decided I wouldn’t give that kind of power to anyone accept those who are a trusted friend, a mentor, or my husband.

I still haven’t gotten into that show but since that day I have gone on to earn signature membership in Watercolor West (WW), Northwest Watercolor Society (NWWS), write two books on watercolor, featured in Splash 11 & 12, contributor to numerous other books, Watercolor Artist, Watercolor Highlights and various other magazines. I teach internationally and abroad. To illustrate my point the two paintings you see were rejected from one show to go on and achieve even greater recognition.

So what’s my point? Don’t let anyone define how you feel about your work! Be proud, hold your head up and let your brush sing with all its might!

Happy Painting!
Brenda

Contour Drawing

2011-08-01T12:26:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to hear from many people who are taking the sketch challenge. Way to go! I want to offer some suggestions, tips, and techniques.

There is a big difference between sketching what you see, and sketching what you think you see. The truth is, we spend very little time looking. I want you to slow down enough, to really look around you. I believe you will begin to see things for the first time. During your day, explore with your eyes. Look at the shape of things, what shapes make up the form? How does light effect the edges? Are the shadows long or short?

There’s beauty in a well done line drawing. Contour drawing is direct and honest. Nothing to hide and you can say so much with so little! This is a slower way of drawing. Contour drawing very concentrated and forces you to slow down, and observe a little bit longer. First be aware of the over all shape. Then put your pen on the and only draw the line as you see it…look longer and draw slower. The pen sketch of my studio was done using this technique.

If you would like to challenge yourself, try a continual line contour drawing. In this exercise, find a starting point at which to put your pen on the page and don’t pick it up until you have finished. There can be a bit of distortion working this way, but I think of the distortion as part of the charm. Look at the pen sketch of the pomegranate and pepper. Here you can see a dot where I began and finished the sketch.

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

75 Day Sketch Challenge

2011-07-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

I am a drawing convert. In 1996 I was challenged to do a sketch a day
in pen. I tossed my pencil and eraser and worked only in pen. At first the task felt overwhelming. But in a short period of time things began to change. Not only did my drawings improve so did my observation skills, design, edge quality, and confidence. It seems like such a simple concept but it does have a way of making a huge difference. My passion for drawing has stayed with me.

Here are just a few reasons why I love to draw:
*Size is non threatening.
*For the FUN of it- I like to sketch!
*Sketching I do for me –Painting I do for others
*Travel and Personal Journal: an illustrated record of my life.
*When I draw I really see the subject for the first time.
*A sketch is complete unto itself. It need not go any further.
*A place to watch my progress. (my books are numbered and dated)
*A sketch is a truer reflection of me, compared to a painting which
is me dressed up and on my best behavior.
*My sketchbooks are my greatest tool as an artist. A place to explore
subjects matter, design, value…

The sketch challenge was a big turning point in my life as an artist. I want to pass along the experience to others. That is how the "Artistic License" came to be. I found a reward was a great motivator. The only way someone can get an Artistic License is to do the 75 Day Sketch Challenge.

When you complete the challenge make sure your email me directly at: SwensonsArt@gmail.com

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

(Click on the guidelines below for a better view and printable form.)

Watercolor Palettes

2011-07-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased a new watercolor palette. Now, it’s not like I don’t already have enough palettes. I just wanted a lighter palette for travel. I don’t see much information out there on how to set up a palette so I figured now would be a good time to share some information.

(1) The palette I purchased is the Heritage Folding Palette with 18 wells. It is one of the nicest travel palettes I have seen in a while and a great price. The lid has a soft plastic seal, which keeps the palette from leaking and keeps your colors from drying out so quickly. Before I use a palette I give it a good scrubbing with a mild abrasive such as soft scrub. This takes the slick surface off the mixing area and removes any oils from the manufacturing. Be sure to thoroughly rinse off the palette…you don’t want this in your paint.

(2) I fill the 18 wells with my favorite selection of paint. Don’t put tiny dabs of paint in the wells…fill the wells! Tiny dabs of paint will eventually just fall out. Hold the tube over the deep end of the well then come back towards the shallow end while squeezing the tube.

(3) Let the palette sit open for a day or two. When the paint had set up and is no longer sticky wet your thumb and push down in the center of each well. What this does is create an indentation for the water. When I get ready to paint I lightly mist the paint wells and I am ready to go.

Here you can see how nicely the paint mixes and mingles because the palette was prepared with a mild abrasive.

List of my paint colors
Colors are listed clockwise starting at the left bottom. I find distinctive differences from one manufacture to the next so I have also listed the brand names.

Leaf Green (Holbein), Hansa Yellow Medium (Daniel Smith), Raw Sienna (Winsor & Newton), Quinacridone Gold (Daniel Smith or Winsor & Newton), Winsor Orange (Winsor & Newton), Scarlet Lake (Holbein or Winsor & Newton), Permanent Alizarin Crimson (Holbein or Winsor & Newton), Rose Violet (Holbein), Cobalt Violet Light (Holbein), Ultramarine Light (Holbein), Cobalt Blue (Holbein or Winsor & Newton), Marine Blue (Holbein), Cerulean Blue (Holbein), Cobalt Teal Blue (Daniel Smith), Viridian Hue (Holbein or Winsor & Newton), Quinacridone Sienna (Daniel Smith), Burnt Sienna (Winsor & Newton), Lunar Black (Daniel Smith)

Happy Painting!
Brenda

En Plein Air

2011-06-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

One of the great joys of being an artist is that I often paint en plein air (French term for outdoors). I have painted and sketched all over the country and half a dozen countries in Europe. I love being outdoors and experiencing the world first hand. Photographs are great but they can never bring back the feeling of the moment when I sketched it. Don’t get me wrong I do have a camera and I take reference photos but I would rather have a small sketchbook filled with images and writings than 700 pictures with no feeling. When I travel I carry a Moleskine sketchbook that fits in my purse. I use this sketchbook for line drawings, notes, and journaling. Many of these pen sketches are later turned into larger paintings once I am back at the studio.

One of my favorite quotes is from the book “The Art Spirit, by Robery Henri” Published in 1923.
"The sketch hunter has delightful days of drifting about among people, in and out of the city, going anywhere, everywhere, stopping as long as he likes-no need to reach any point, moving in any direction following the call of interest. He moves through life as he finds it, not passing negligently the things he loves, but stopping to know them, and to note them down in the shorthand of his sketchbook. Like any hunter he hits or misses. He is looking for what he loves, he tries to capture it. It’s found anywhere, everywhere. Those who are not hunters do not see these things. The hunter is learning to see and to understand-enjoy."

I know how romantic all this might sound. The other side of painting en plein air is dealing with things you can’t control…weather, bugs, inquisitive tourists, sunburns, sprinklers, dogs…and noise! I have sketched in remote areas of the world to have a man with a weed wacker appear out of nowhere. My painting buddy Judy calls me the “weed wacker magnet”. Judy and I were painting last week when suddenly we were surrounded by every imaginable noisy machine you could imagine...and a weed wacker! We just laughed and continued to paint.

Happy painting!
Brenda

Rearranging Elements

2011-06-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

So often we set out to record what is before us in a meticulous fashion right down to every building, tree, rock... The most exciting aspects of being an artist, is being able to create what doesn’t exist! What fun it is, to be able to move mountains and buildings, rearrange the country side, and change the weather with just the flick of my wrist.

How do I go about rearranging elements?
First I decide what is important in the scene. I’ll select between 3 and 5 elements and draw them simply at the top of my paper. For my painting I selected the lighthouse, flowers, trees and shrubs. Next, I take the elements and arrange and rearrange them in small thumbnail studies. The thumbnail studies are small, generally 2 or 3 inches in size. Here is where I can quickly work out a composition, before I’ve committed time and effort to a painting. Generally 3 to 5 elements in a scene make a good arrangement. I do this until I find an arrangement that excites or inspires me. It takes doing at least 4 arrangements, to get a good feeling for the scene.

True creativity, takes what you know and makes it more than it was.

Happy Painting!
Brenda

SPLASH 12

2011-06-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

Great news...I just received my copy of "SPLASH 12, Celebrating Artistic Vision". I am very honored to be included in this book, and to be in the company of so many fine artists. The two paintings selected are watercolor stained paper collages.

I feel like a little kid... giddy, excited and I just had to share!

Happy Painting!
Brenda

Watercolor on Tinted Paper

2011-06-06T11:59:00.000-07:00

Most tinted surfaces I sketch and paint on are not intended for watercolor. For example, I’ve found that the Canson Mi-Teintes pastel papers handle watercolor nicely, with a little warping. Mi-Teintes has a 65% rag content, a 98 lb. weight and is gelatine sized making it very strong. The paper has two distinct surface textures, one side smooth and the other grainy. The paper is highly receptive and easy to work on.

Rice and mulberry papers can produce wonderful results but are a more difficult surface to work with. Sometimes I will stain the papers in a bath of tea. I like the warm tones of the paper from tea. When dry I cover the paper with a thin wash of acrylic matte medium. The papers are rather delicate to work on.

I’ve found a few companies that make tinted watercolor papers, but I find the expense unnecessary. The tinted watercolor papers I’ve tried are Bockingford and Khadi.

One of the great joys of being an artist is experimenting with new subject matter, formats materials... If you are in a creative rut…try something new!

Happy sketching!

Brenda

Tinted Papers

2011-05-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

Watercolorists often talk about “happy accidents”—those events that occur by chance but result in a pleasing circumstance. For me, happy accidents usually occur when I’m opening myself up to new possibilities, experimenting with new colors, methods or techniques. During one such “play time”, I was making a value study on a piece of colored paper. My watercolor palette was nearby, prompting me to wonder how a wash of color over the drawing might look. Next I added a few lights with white gouache (an opaque paint). And to my delight, I discovered that I love the result! Applying gouache to sketches or tinted paper is nothing new---but it opened up new possibilities for me.

Stayed tuned…next time I will share information about different types of tinted papers.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

On a Personal Note....

2011-05-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Dear Fellow Artists and Friends,

I have ignored my blog for a short period of time due to family issues. I am happy to report things are starting to return to normal.

Here is the update. Doctors decided to induce labor on our first grand child due to complications. Joshua was born May 27^th at 1:58 am. He weighs 7lbs 6oz. I was able to see him shortly after he was born. He is beautiful! My son Daniel and Heidi (my daughter-in-love) are doing well and at the same time overwhelmed with love for him, and exhausted… little Joshua is having a rough start. He has fluid in his lungs and is in the NICU (baby ICU). His breathing has improved, he is alert, and his color is good. We pray that the lung condition is not serious and his little body will overcome his breathing problem….we will know more over the next couple days.

Don’t give up on my blog updates…I’ll return with teaching, techniques and inspirations soon.

Happy Painting! Brenda

Negative Painting with Watercolor

2011-05-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Negative painting is where more focus is placed on the space around and in between the object. Most paintings benefit from a variety of positive and negative painting. If you struggle to see negative shapes try working from a black & white photo. Here I have shown the reference photo in black & white and color.

I have experimented with masking fluids and tapes to save the whites of the paper but have found that nothing is as beautiful or effective as negative painting. Rarely do you come across an object that is pure white. Most objects are 3 dimensional and when something turns from a light source it will have a value and color shift in the form shadow. In the shadow you’ll see reflected color from nearby objects. Adding gentle hints of color into a white/light area gives it a glow, dimension and life! Without this your white objects will have a tendency to look cutout or flat.

Steps to Negative Painting:

1. Draw design. Be mindful of the space and shapes between objects (negative space).

2. Wet paper with clean water and introduce the 3 paint colors for underpainting. I made color swatches to determine which 3 colors. Tilt paper or use a spray bottle to help paint move and mingle. Don’t over work the surface with a paint brush but encourage the paint to mix on the paper. Let Dry.

3. Start glazing. Paint hard edges against subject and soften edges with water as you move out from subject. Don’t get dark too fast. Pencil in new shapes between glazes if you are getting lost.

If you are interested in learning more about negative painting please check my website for workshop listings.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Sketching with Watercolor

2011-05-02T16:43:00.000-07:00

When I teach a watercolor sketching workshop I find some participants get so hung up on the end product that they can’t even begin. It is essential to keep things moving forward, and make lots of small discoveries, and have fun in the process!

Here’s how I like to get the creative ball rolling.

I always start my workshops with warm-ups. When students arrive (especially the first day) I find they are hurried, tense and very self conscience. This isn’t the mindset to be creative...my solution is using a timer. We start with multiple pen drawing exercises (3 minutes) and quickly move into color. The timer has a way of keeping the group focused and moving forward. It is amazing to see how quickly people begin to relax and laugh. It only takes 20 minutes or less to feel the energy in the room become positive and creative. This is when great things begin to happen!

The waterproof pen I use is the Pitt Artist Pen (size M) and the brush is the Niji Waterbrush (size large). You can find both of these at Cheap Joe’s Art Stuff. I know there is no such thing as a “Magic Brush” but this is the next best thing. Water is at your fingertips with these ingenious brushes. It is a brush and water container in one. Water is stored in the hollow plastic handle and is released through the bristles with just a squeeze. Just the perfect tool for quick sketches!

Teaching is a privilege I take seriously. I am always looking for new and different ways to teach, inspire, and encourage. When I see the light go on in student’s eyes...I've done my job!

If you are interested in taking one of my workshops please check my website for listings.

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Tuscany En Plein Air

2011-04-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Come join me in Tuscany! September 3-13, 2011

During the day I will give instruction in watercolor sketching and painting techniques. We will explore and sketch the beautiful near by cities of Lucca, Cinque Terre, and San Giminano. Time will also be available to shop, sight see, eat...and enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes and cities in the world!

This is my fourth trip to Italy and have fallen in love with this region. I have found the people to be warm, friendly, and the sites are amazing, and the food is beyond delicious! The stunning and peaceful landscape has made Tuscany one of the most cherished painting locations in the world. The warm and friendly people make it difficult to leave.

Our Tuscan home retains the ambience of a 600-year-old farmhouse, with its grand fireplace and wine cantina, yet has all the amenities expected by 21st century guests: central heating, modern and numerous bathrooms, even Internet access. The quiet, the views and the personal "nooks" cause some people to say, “I’m staying right here.”

Tuscany En Plein Air workshop, prices, location and more, click here for more details.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

(slide show is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox)

Watercolor Artist Magazine

2011-04-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

It feels like Christmas in April...I just received my copy of Watercolor Artist (June 2011). I am so excited to see my article in print! The title of my feature is "Little Pieces of Color". In the article I share the technique of watercolor stained paper collage. I begin with the staining of the Japanese papers, drawing of design, collage, and finish with painting. I have five additional paintings included in the article. The color reproduction is great.

I am delighted to be included in this publication! If you would like to order a copy of Watercolor Artist magazine, click here. The magazine is also available at most major book stores.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Thursday's En Plein Air

2011-04-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

Every Thursday morning I meet with a group of fellow painters at 9:00 a.m. I have been painting with this group for over 8 years. We paint till 12:00, eat our sack lunches and finish with a critique. Walter McNall is our leader along with his lovely wife Martha. After lunch Walter critiques the oil paintings and I critique the watercolors.

This week we painted at the Arlington Garden in Pasadena. The garden is at its peak for blooming colors, and variety. The day was warm and pleasant with temperatures in high 70’s. We had a large turn out of painters this week. Usually we range from 15 to 30 people but yesterday we topped 40!

You would think a place so beautiful would be easy to paint…not so. I felt overwhelmed with so much beauty. I took time to wander about the gardens, visit with fellow artists, and did a couple drawings. I settled a midst the bright red poppies and did a small watercolor.

If you live in the Pasadena area and would like join us let me know…all are welcome.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Sketching Buddies

2011-04-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

Last week I got out of town for a 4 day sketching trip to Ojai, California. My good friend Judy Schroeder joined me. Judy and I have been friends for years and sketching with watercolor has always been the driving focus of our trips. We look at these trips as a way to recharge our creative battery and look for new subject matter. We have gone on road trips to Napa, San Diego, Sedona, a boat to Catalina Island, flown to North Carolina, and a river barge from the Czech Republic to Dresden Germany and I can’t forget wonderful Tuscany.

I can not express how important it is to have a sketching buddy. Neither of our husbands enjoys travel like we do. If I did not have a friend like Judy I wouldn’t have visit most of the places I have. Judy works faster than me but she is generally happy to do two sketches to my one. We are drawn to similar subject matter and seem to keep a pace that suits us both. I can’t say most people would like to sketch and paint as much as we do (more than once we have had friends join us only to have them drop off quickly). In the evening we finish what we started during the day. Often we will critique each others work. I trust Judy’s friendship and good eye. Judy is the owner of the Schroeder Studio Gallery in Orange, CA.

Another reason it is important to have a sketching buddy is for safety. I hate to admit it but there are people out there who would like to do harm. Having a buddy near by creates another set of eyes. I am very careful not to make myself an easy target for any crime. Most of the people we meet are genuinely interested in what we are doing and very friendly. Final reason to have a sketching buddy is it is always more fun to share the experience with a friend!

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Painting Demonstration of "CAL 46"

2011-03-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

In this demonstration I am painting a close up of a 1946 Chevrolet pick-up, hence the title “CAL 46”. I have been fascinated with old trucks for years, and a large body of my work is inspired by them. I came across this truck at a nursery, where it was being used to display an array of plants. I was captivated with the way the light streamed across the front of the fender and grill. I knew I had an interesting photograph, but the most successful paintings start with a good drawing. It is helpful to remember “a camera has one eye and no brain”. It is our job as artists to put life into our work, and not be bound by a photograph. You will notice from the reference photograph, that a license plate was not in the photograph. I added the license plate for design purposes. I needed something that would complete the movement of the eye through the painting, and away from the corner.

Remember, what is happening on the paper, is more important than reality.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Negative Painting with Watercolor

2011-03-14T15:26:00.000-07:00

This is a painting I started awhile back and decided to put it aside when I had lost direction. When I am unsure about a painting whether it is design, values, color...I put it aside until I have a clear direction and vision again. The last thing I want to do is make meaningless stroke and paint myself into a corner. I find putting a little time between me and a painting is usually enough to help me see clear again. If this doesn't work I have artist friends whose judgment I trust.

The problem I ran into with this painting was color. The amount of green was over powering the painting. The dreaded Green Monster (wink). To tone down the green I made a large puddle of Rose violet. In a couple places I wet the paper with clear water and ran the Rose Violet into the wet passages. I kept the paper tilted and used a spray bottle to help move the paint. Problem solved…no more Green Monster!

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Negative Painting with Watercolor

2011-03-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Here is a negative painting I finished yesterday. The process is some what meditative and requires that I slow down and not be in a hurry to complete. Some days I find it easier to work on a negative painting than others. Once I am in the 'negative" state of mind I enjoy working on numerous paintings. The techniques requires time for each glaze to thoroughly dry. With each glaze I build shapes, depth of color and values.

Happy Painting!
Brenda

Negative Painting with Watercolor

2011-02-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

I begin a negative painting with an underpainting of 3 colors. To determine which 3 colors I will use I make color swatches. The swatches will contain a red, blue, and yellow. The colors do not need to be true primaries. When I mix the colors it is important to have the 3 colors be the same level of wetness to encourage good mixing on the paper. I am looking for colors that mix well and create an underlying feeling of the subject colors. Cadmium and opaque colors do not work for negative painting. The 3 colors I selected are Quinacidone Gold, Cerulean Blue, and Carmine. Once the under-painting is complete I can add additional colors but I well use the 3 original colors through out the painting process.

Steps to Negative Painting:

1. Draw design. Be mindful of the space and shapes between objects (negative space).

2. Wet paper with clean water and introduce the 3 paint colors. Tilt paper or use a spray bottle to help paint move and mingle. Don’t over work the surface with a paint brush but encourage the paint to mix on the paper. Let Dry.

3. Start glazing. Paint hard edges against subject and soften edges with water as you move out from subject.

4. With each glaze you’ll add new shapes and darker values. Completely dry between each glaze.

* Pencil in new shapes between glazes if you are getting lost.

*Don’t get dark too fast.

If you are interested in learning more about negative painting I have a 3-day workshop May 20, 21, & 22.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Sketch Journal

2011-02-22T15:41:00.000-08:00

Whenever I travel to distant lands I keep my sketchbook with me at all times. I take great care to record what I see through daily sketching and journaling. I treat each day with the greatest of regard. I sketch anything that catches my eye… street scenes, people, open markets, cathedrals, lunch at a cafe… Each night before I go to sleep I reflect upon the day and write in my sketchbook. A couple years ago I was doing the 75 Day Sketch Challenge (again) and I had a revelation. I was recording my travels as if they were more special than daily life. I may never see Prague, Berlin, Florence, and Carcassone again… but I definitely won’t see this day again.

It is our daily existence, the commons events that shape our life. When I look back over the years and reflect on what really mattered. I will look back with fondness to the places I have traveled and things I have seen but it is going to be the small moments that bring me the most joy…the face of someone I love, coffee with a friend, my home, garden, and even daily chores.

I hope I have inspired you to start sketching. Perhaps you might even take the 75 Day Sketch Challenge. Don’t hold creativity at bay until you think you’ll have more time, energy… Make today count!

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Shadows and Reflected Light

2011-02-16T11:11:00.000-08:00

Light is what reveals form, color and texture. It can transform ordinary objects into something dramatic, exciting and full of life! Look for the presence of light and how it affects the subject. When there is light, you’ll also have shadows. In these shadows you’ll have the greatest possibilities for exciting color!

Often I see students reach for a tube of gray paint when they are describing shadows. What they don’t know is that shadows are where the most exciting color possibilities can be found. The illuminated area near an object reflects (bounces) light into the shadows which carries color with it. This is called reflected light.

To achieve a better understanding of shadows and reflected light, it can help to actually see it happen. Look at the photo of the still life; now look at the shadow directly beneath the object (arrow). In the cast shadow you will see color from the object.

Cast shadows will suggest the shape of the object that cast it. A cast shadow will have a distinct edge. The further a cast shadow is from the source, the more it is infiltrated by light and as a result becomes warmer, softer and paler.

Form shadows are delicate in appearance and important in making a subject appear three dimensional. The form shadow is lighter in value than the cast shadow. The form shadow has a softer or less defined edge to it than a cast shadow. This is because a form shadow isn’t created by a blocked light source, but by turning from the light source.

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Holly Hill House

2011-02-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Demonstration to show the many stages of a painting. The image on the top was the original sketch. The entire painting process was done over the span of a couple weeks.

I think it is helpful for people to see and understand that artists aren’t magicians…what they do is a learned skill. Our craft is honed and perfected over a lifetime. It requires devotion and sacrifice to be the very best we can be. Being an artist may not be the easiest path in life but I would not want it any other way! I am so grateful that I have been given a life filled with opportunities to teach, travel and paint. I love what I do!

Happy Painting!
Brenda

“If people knew how hard I worked to get my mastery, it wouldn’t seem so wonderful at all.” ~Michelangelo

Watercolor Workshop

2011-01-28T15:16:00.000-08:00

3-Day Workshop

Watercolor Sketching Techniques

Enjoy the charming, loose, and colorful nature of watercolor at its best, while sketching! Sharpen your observation skills, color awareness and learn simple design principles. Each day we’ll explore various sketching tools, techniques and papers. Learn how a sketch can be complete in itself, or a road map to larger studio paintings. Whether you want to improve your skills, create travel journals or take that next step as an artist you will come away from this workshop excited and inspired about your artwork. Benefit from daily demonstrations, friendly critiques, and lots of one on one help. Skill Level: All

When: February 18, 19, & 20, 2011 (Fri. Sat. & Sun.) Time: 9:00-4:00

Where: Citibank, Community Room, 2350 Honolulu Ave, Montrose CA

Space in the workshop will be reserved upon registration. Space is limited to 15.

Workshop fee $260.00. Contact Brenda for registration at SwensonsArt@gmail.com

Sketchbook

2011-01-28T08:37:00.000-08:00

Sketching with watercolor is the act of observing and gathering visual information. It is not about making a perfect painting; in fact, watercolor sketches by nature are often colorful and lighthearted. The sketch can be complete in itself, or a road map to larger paintings.

Rarely am I without a sketchbook; I use sketchbooks for location studies, travel journals, designing paintings, color mixtures and notes, and so much more. I have filled dozens and dozens of these books over the years, and they have become like old friends. With each new book I wonder were it will lead me, and what new lessons will be learned along the way.

Life as in art is the knowing where to draw the line.

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Vignette

2011-01-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

I enjoy doing quick little watercolor sketches that are called vignettes. So just what is a vignette? A small colorful unfinished watercolor that is simply defined.

If you would like to try a vignette here are some guidelines:

(1) The sketch is small-postcard size (5x7).

(2) Sketch does not extend into any of the corners.

(3) The design should touch the sides at least once but need not touch all 4 sides.

(4) The composition is the cruciform. What is a Cruciform? A cruciform is created when dominate vertical and horizontal shapes intersect. Where these shapes converge it is an ideal place for establishing your center of interest. The intersection is off center both vertically and horizontally. Care should be taken not to have the intersection in the dead center of the paper. The corners are simplified creating negative space.

If you are interested in learning more about this or other sketching techniques please see my website for workshop dates and locations.

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Tuscany En Plein Air, Watercolor Sketching Workshop

2010-11-09T09:48:00.000-08:00

Come join me for a wonderful sketching workshop in Tuscany. September 3-13, 2011!

During the day I will give instruction in watercolor sketching and painting techniques. We will have ample opportunities to explore and sketch the beautiful near by cities of Lucca, Cinque Terre, San Giminano. Time will also be available to shop, sight see, eat...and enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes and cities in the world!

Our Tuscan home retains the ambience of a 600-year-old farmhouse, with its grand fireplace and wine cantina, yet has all the amenities expected by 21st century guests: central heating, modern and numerous bathrooms, even Internet access. The wood-fired oven is used for bread-making lessons for the cooking courses, and our weekly pizza night is offered to participants of all courses and tours.

This is my third trip to Italy and I must admit I have fallen in love with Tuscany. I have found the people to be warm, friendly, and the sites are "eye candy" to the artist. And the food is beyond delicious! The stunning and peaceful landscape, the warm people and the absorbing courses at times make it difficult for people to leave Selva. The quiet, the views and the personal "nooks" cause some people to say, “I’m staying right here.”

Tuscany En Plein Air workshop, prices, location and more, click here for more details.

Come experience the true flavor of Tuscany!

Brenda

Artistic License

2010-11-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

In 1996 I was challenged by Chris VanWinkle to do a sketch a day for 10 weeks only in pen. For the next 70 days I tossed my pen and eraser and worked only in pen. Not only did my drawing skills improve so did observation skills, design, edge quality, confidence…AND my paintings. It seems like such a simple concept but it does have a way of making a huge difference.

The sketch challenge was a big turning point in my life as an artist. I wanted to pass along the experience to others. That is how the "Artistic License" came to be. I found a reward was a great motivator. The only way someone can get an Artistic License is to do the 75 Day Sketch Challenge.

I thought it would be fun to share the faces and the names of the people who not only completed the challenge but earned an “Artistic License” in the process.

Happy Sketching!

Brenda

Negative Painting of "Leaves and Berries"

2010-10-27T13:01:00.000-07:00

What is negative painting?

Happy Painting!

Brenda

Wonky

2010-10-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

As a teacher I work hard to remind students to play and enjoy what they do. Yes, art is serious stuff but serious stuff can be fun, too!

For 11 days I sketched the city of Prague carefully recording all the details of the building, streets, people… I began to feel weary of being so accurate and bogged down with details and accuracy. Luckily, I stumbled across an artist who painted in a playful way. His artwork looked fun. I wanted to have fun, too! For the remainder of that day I drew everything with lines that curved. We named this style "Wonky". And, what fun I had.

I have included 2 sketches from my travel journal. The first sketch is drawn "Wonky". The second sketch is concerned with recording details. They are both of the same church but have a very different feeling.

Message to you is-Get out and play!

Happy Sketching,

Brenda

Negative Painting Demonstration

2010-10-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

This demonstration was done with 5 colors: Scarlet Lake, Manganese Blue, New Gamboge, Marine Blue and Burnt Sienna.

Step #1 I use the wet-into-wet technique to underpaint. I use 3 colors in the under painting: red (Scarlet Lake), blue (Manganese Blue Hue) and a yellow (New Gamboge).
I wet the entire paper and add the colors separately allowing, them to mix on the paper.

Step #2 Once the underpainting is thoroughly dried I add my first glaze. I am using the original 3 colors plus a little touch of Marine Blue. I begin at the edge of the flowers and pull the color out towards the outer edge of the paper, diluting with water as I go. I continue to glaze all around the flowers. This is the negative space!

Step # 3 Let thoroughly dry. I now glaze across portions of the white flowers. I focus on the lower section of petals where they would be turning from the light. This glaze also covers portions of the background. I vaguely suggest the center of each flower with New Gamboge and Scarlet Lake.

Step #4 Let thoroughly dry. In the final stage the glaze is the darkest value. I glaze with a rich green made with Marine Blue and Burnt sienna. I once again begin at the edge of the flowers and pull the color out towards the outer edge of the paper, diluting with water as I go. I add a small amount of Scarlet Lake to the green mixture to liven it up, while it is still damp. I want some of the original glazes to show so I don’t cover the entire area with a glaze. I am selective to place my darks against the areas where I want the eye to look. I add small negative shapes near the center of the flowers. I also add negative shapes to suggest additional stems and leaves. The final results are flowers that appear white with reflective colors shown on them.

Tip: Don’t get dark too fast instead build up color and values with multiple glazes.

Happy Painting!
Brenda

Continual Line Contour with Watercolor

2010-09-21T13:27:00.000-07:00

Here is a demonstration of how I use watercolor with a "Continual Line Contour Drawings". I use Tombow pens for the drawing because they are a water based inks and dissolve nicely when I paint watercolor on top. The color I prefer is a burnt sienna. Another reason I like to use these pens is because the drawing becomes less prominent than water proof pens.

In the photograph I show the still life set-up, the contour drawing, and the final stage with watercolor. This is a wonderful warm up exercise. If you are not sure how to approach a Continual Line Contour Drawing look at the prior post on my blog.

Happy Sketching!
Brenda

Continual Line Contour Drawing

2010-09-21T13:13:00.000-07:00

I am often asked how do I begin a "Continual Line Contour Drawing"? I usually start at the top and work my way down on the left side, and back up on the right side. I am conscious of not closing in the entire subject. It is important to leave open edges. Keeping open edges allows the eye to move in and through the drawing freely.

In this sketch you will notice a dot where I begin and finish. Once I put the pen on the paper I don't lift the pen until it is finished. The image becomes a little distorted but I think that is part of its charm.

Splash 11

2010-09-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

Nearly one year ago I had a painting selected to be included in Splash 11, New Directions. I recently received my copy of the book. To give you a little back ground the first of the Splash book series was published when I was just beginning to paint with watercolor many years ago. It was one of the first art books I bought. I remember looking through the pages and being in complete awe (and I still am) of the talented painters in the book. I never imagined that I would some day be included! So forgive me for bragging but I am so excited. If you would like to view a few pages of the book click here: Splash 11, New Directions

Sketch to Painting

2010-09-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

Sketching is the act of observing and gathering visual information. It is not about making a perfect painting. Most of my paintings are inspired by sketches created on location. Watercolor sketches are somewhat loose and colorful by nature, which is part of their charm.

A sketch can be complete in itself or a springboard to a larger studio painting. Sometimes a sketch has just scratched the surface when it comes to exploring a subject. I use my sketches and photographs as a reference to make improvements or adjustments to my original design. I use a value study to plan my passage of lights, darks. I enjoy the act of drawing and the time spent allows me the opportunity to walk through the painting progression in my mind before I begin.

The sketch on the left side is 9x6 inches. The finished painting on the right is 20x15.

Mixing Colors

2010-08-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

Over the summer I have been teaching lots of workshops from California, to Southern France, to Vermont, to home again. Time and time again I hear students say "why don't the colors on my palette mix like yours?". What I have found is students often show up with new palettes or palettes that have been barely broken in. The problem with new palettes is the finish is new and slick. And sometimes the surface may even have a oily grime from the factory. Watercolor when mixed on a new palettes has a tendency to bead up and not lay down. Not only do the colors bead up they have a tendency to pull back from the colors you are trying to mix them with. When you get a new palette clean it first with a liquid cleanser. You can find this cleanser under the brand name of Soft Scrub but any inexpensive off brand will work. It only takes a small amount (teaspoon) to do the trick. I periodically clean my current palette with the formula that also contains bleach. One word of caution-clean all the liquid cleanser off your palette with water and paper towels. Don't let the cleanser get into your paints.

In the photo the paint on the left hand side has beaded up and pulled back from the others colors. On the right hand side the paint lays down and the colors mingle.

Go clean your palette!

75 Day Sketch Challenge

2010-08-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

I have heard from lots of people who are taking the "75 Day Sketch Challenge". Great news! I like to have fun with the "Challenge" and not let the exercise start to feel like a burden. Some days my sketches are small and quick and others days they become involved and span over two pages. The idea is to have fun and grow during the challenge. In this sketch I did continual line contour drawing. Once I put the pen on the paper I don't lift the pen until it is done. The image becomes a little distorted but I think that is part of its charm. Give it a try.

75 Day Sketch challenge

2010-08-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

A few Years ago I developed what is know as an "Artistic License". This came about as an inspiration to get my students to discover the joy of sketching. The only way you can get an Artistic License is to do the "75 Day Sketch Challenge". Below is the guidelines.
Happy Sketching!
Brenda

75 Sketches in 75 Days
Brenda@SwensonsArt.net

Guidelines:
*Pen and ink only-The idea is to build observation and drawing skills.

*Size: Up to you.

*If you miss a day don’t give up do 2 the next day.

*In 75 days I hope to get an email or phone call that says I did it!

*Send me a photo I can use on your Artistic License.

*Honor System. I won’t be asking you to show me proof of your 75 sketches.

~~~~~Email Brenda with info below Brenda@SwensonsArt.net ~~~~~~

Name: _________________________________________

Start Date: ___________ Finish Date: __________________

Email address: ____________________________________

Mailing address: ___________________________________

_______________________________________________

Sketch Bag

2010-08-03T12:11:00.000-07:00

Many years ago the idea came about to keep all my sketching supplies in one place. Nothing is worse than setting out for a day of sketching and painting to find I forgot something major like my brushes, paint, or sketchbook. I keep my bag packed with all the necessary supplies and never unpack it. I have a separate set of brushes, palette, ...for studio work. I even keep a snack and enough money for lunch tucked in a pocket and of course my Artistic License! I have been toting around my canvas sketch bag for so many years I've lost count. We have traveled all over the United States, Prague, Berlin, Florence, and most recently Southern France.

Many of my friends and students have nicknamed the bag the "Brenda Bag". If you would like to get one they are very inexpensive and available at Harbor Freight Tools. It is a Canvas Rigger Bag.

http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch/result/?category=&q=canvas+rigger

Negative Painting with Watercolor

2010-07-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Negative painting is one of the most exciting approaches to watercolor painting I know! It is a unique approach of painting around an object to define it in your composition. When working in watercolor we have challenges that other mediums do not. It is what we don’t paint that becomes the most important.

General description to the process:

Draw design. Be alert of the space/shape between objects.
Wet paper with clean water and charge juicy paint into the wet areas (limit to 3 colors).
Tilt paper or use spray bottle to help paint move and mingle. Don’t over work the surface with a paint brush. Let Dry.
Start painting the space between the shapes with glazes. Soften edges as you move out from subject matter.
With each glaze you’ll add new shapes and darker values.

If you would like to learn more about this technique and take a workshop please see my workshop listing. Up coming workshops

Painting in the park

2010-07-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I painted at Lacy Park in San Marino. This is a group I regularly paint with each week. Number one I do not like the heat and it was predicted to reach 100+ degrees. I had a terrible morning! I put my sketching gear in the car with only slight intention of actually using it. I had planned to show up only for a brief time and be on my way. I am so glad I went! One of our members Luz came dressed in a beautiful costume from head to toe. We gathered under the shade of the trees and happily painted away.

The interesting thing is I had showed up with less than optimistic attitude and left with my spirits lifted and feeling recharged. Art does have a way of healing the mind and spirit. So even when you don't feel like showing up it may be exactly what you need to do. Just a thought.

Continual Line Contour Drawing

2010-07-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

If you want to feel inspired the thing to do is jump start the process. When I enter my studio with the mind set of “play” I find the creative part of my brain kicks in and the painting session is energetic and productive. Now on the other hand if I walk into my studio expecting a masterpiece I instantly feel the muscles tighten in my neck and I become dissatisfied with everything I do.

To get the creative ball rolling I start by doing timed contour drawings in pen. I consider this approach “play” and I even go as far as setting a timer so I don’t let the drawing become too involved or precious. The kind of contour drawing I do is what I call continual line contour. What it means is once I put the pen on the paper I don’t lift it up until I’m done. There will be a certain amount of distortion to the drawing but I consider this part of the charm. I start by drawing a single object in 3 minutes and work up to an arrangement of 3 objects in 10 minutes. Once I feel warmed up I’ll introduce watercolor into the timed session but work no longer than 20 minutes on the arrangement.

These “play” sessions have become energizing and creative times. In my studio I keep a box of objects to draw such as jars, kettles, paint tubes, brushes, mugs, tools and silk vegetables. It’s funny how the mind acts when you set a timer, absolute complete focus!