How to Achieve Breathtaking Light in Your Watercolors Sep 08, 2025

My neighbor's old truck catches my eye every time I pass it. Especially when the light is hitting it just right.

If you haven't noticed, interesting and beautiful light really inspires me. Capturing it in a watercolor painting isn't simple, but over the years, I've made a lot of progress in this...

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The 3 Biggest Mistakes Made By Beginner Watercolor Artists Sep 01, 2025

Today I'm talking about the three things that beginners get wrong with watercolor. If you can change even one of these things, you're going to be miles ahead of where you are now.

Fix These 3 Blunders And Watch Your Paintings Soar

1. Use Fewer Brushstrokes.

The first thing that I see beginners...

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How To Use Any Reference Photo To Paint A Stunning Watercolor Aug 25, 2025

Have you ever had a reference photo that has elements you like but also has some problem areas that hold the scene back from its potential? 

Today I want to give you permission to make your scene exactly what you need it to be while still drawing inspiration from what you love about your referen...

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Colors to Use for Brilliant Watercolor Paintings Aug 18, 2025

If you want to create strong light in your watercolor scenes, you have to pay special attention to the colors and the strength of your mixes. To have bright, vibrant light, you must also have dark values, reflections, and appropriate placement of warm and cool colors. 

Let's dig into this topic!...

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One Of The Most Effective Watercolor Practices - Painting Clouds Aug 11, 2025

The obvious reason painting clouds is a valuable watercolor practice is because you will want to know how to paint clouds in your landscapes. But focusing in on skies can also accelerate your progress in other watercolor skills.

This practice gives you the opportunity to work on timing and color...

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How To Imbue Your Paintings With Targeted Focus Aug 04, 2025

It's essential to achieve an impression of depth without losing sight of your focal point, especially in a landscape scene like the one above that spans miles and great heights. It can be more difficult than it looks, though, to create both a powerful focus and a great distance. 

Here are four t...

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Indispensable Tips On How To Paint A Watercolor Nocturne Jul 28, 2025

There is something so peaceful about nighttime. In fact, there was a period of time when my kids were really young and life was so full that I the only time I could get out for walks was after sundown. I was surprised how serene and quiet, how reflective these times could be.

So it's no wonder I...

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3 Watercolor Steps for More Vibrant and Interesting Paintings Jul 21, 2025

One of the most spectacular places I've visited is the beautiful ancient fishing village of Cefalu. 

It's Rick Steves favorite place in all of Sicily, and it was featured in the second season of White Lotus. I recently had the chance to go and visit here and paint in person, and of course I also...

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