Monday, May 27, 2013

The Squadron

I checked with my knowledgeable friend, Google, to see what a group of Pelicans is called.  One of the names is a "squadron" which seems like a fitting description.   They are ready to launch an attack as they fly close to the water looking for a quick meal.

I love watching them skim the water as the waves are crashing.  Even though they are large, clumsy looking birds while on land, they are very graceful in flight.  These are brown pelicans, which are prevalent in Mexico on the Pacific side.

This was a challenging painting because of the paper I used.  It is a piece of Lanaquarelle 150# watercolor paper that I've had for a very long time.  I've never heard that sizing in paper goes away over time but this certainly didn't seem to have any on it.  I've used other Lanaquarelle paper that was purchased in the past year and really liked it.
As soon as I put brush to this paper, I knew it was going to be a hard surface for painting.  It absorbed the paint immediately like a blotter.  I was tempted to throw it out but it was the only paper I had with me (I was out of town) so I continued and eventually enjoying working on it.  One of the problems was that the paint kept absorbing into the paper and was pretty pale when it dried.  The back of the paper looks like it was painted also because the paint bled through.

I don't think this would ever be a favorite paper but it was interesting to have the paper completely soaked and apply paint and not have it spread.  I think working on surfaces that challenge my usual way of working is a good exercise.   But...next week I will paint on a less stressful surface.  : )

The Squadron
Image Size 11" x 15"
Watercolor

11 comments:

  1. Nancy, I think this is simply stunning. Beautiful wave action, gorgeous colors! You made the difficult surface work for you, not a'gin you!

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  2. a squadron of birds... I like that! Hey, I know that fellow Google too! He's pretty smart most of the time. I really admire the way you use the watercolors to create those dreamy blended effects. And it sounds like your paper was a new challenge for you. But now you have the experience with that paper and good working knowledge of one more tool for your toolbox as a well-rounded artist. And you have this gorgeous painting! I really like the composition and movement.

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  3. Thank you Sherry. I admit to a bit of cursing during the process but in the end, it was fun.

    Thank you Katherine. Yes, it's always good to add to the toolbox.

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  4. Such an interesting post, Nancy! My Dad left a lot of watercolors and I have some paper...you have inspired me to at least try!!! I love the powerful waves!

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  5. I think you will really like watercolors Hilda. I'll look forward to seeing them on your blog.

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  6. Hi, Nancy - I just spent some time looking through your blog and website and I am so impressed. It amazes me that you are so proficient in so many media! Your watercolors are truly lovely. Enjoy your life drawing class!

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  7. Thank you Susan. I can't wait to try life drawing. I've been afraid of it for too long.

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  8. Fabulous wave, Nancy! Love the squadron formation.

    I'm always amazed at the elegance and precision of pelicans in flight too... we have lots of them off the NC coast. I long ago decided that if I could choose how I come back in the next life, I'd like to be a pelican!

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  9. Thank you Deborah. Pelicans are really fun to watch, aren't they?

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