Watercolour Painting
Have you ever wondered about the beautiful art of watercolour painting?
Well…wonder no more!
You don’t need anything more to start learning the art of watercolour painting than some paints, brushes and paper – and of course the interest to learn and express yourself through this gorgeous medium.
Watercolour isn’t just a form of art though, it’s also a therapeutic and relaxing activity that can transport you to a realm of peace and serenity. Let’s check out the numerous benefits of watercolour painting as a relaxion therapy and an art therapy, we’ll have a look at what you need and how you too can acquire this beautiful skill.
Unlock the Benefits of Watercolour Painting: Relaxation Therapy & Art Therapy
Watercolour painting offers a myriad of benefits for your mind, body, and soul. The act of immersing yourself in this beautiful art form can help reduce stress, anxiety, and even promote mindfulness. Switch on some background music, get your work area set up – I have used tabletops, my lap, and the rickety table of a campervan. You can literally have fun anywhere with a few simple items.
Through the gentle strokes and soothing colour blending, watercolour painting can transport you into a state of calmness and relaxation. Moreover, it allows you to express yourself creatively, offering an outlet for emotions and thoughts that might be difficult to articulate verbally.
Art therapy embraces the healing potential of the artistic process. Watercolour painting, as a form of art therapy, allows you to tap into your psyche and connect with your true self. It encourages self-expression and can be an incredibly empowering activity.
Seeing your art take shape before your eyes, and created with your own hands, offers such and feeling of achievement and accomplishment.
And even if you don’t start out great, you will delight in seeing your skills grow and improve as you learn more.
Gather Your Watercolour Painting Supplies: Equipment Required
Before diving into watercolour painting, you’ll need to gather the essential tools and equipment you’ll need to embark on this artistic journey.
Here’s a brief list of what you’ll need to get started, inclusive of a few handy links to watercolour painting supplies.
Watercolour Paper
Choosing the right type of paper is crucial for achieving the desired effects in your paintings.
Opt for high-quality, acid-free watercolour paper to prevent colours from bleeding and retain their vibrancy.
Watercolour paper comes in a variety of sizes and weights (gsm).
A 200gsm is suitable for most styles of watercolour painting, anything less your sheet risks buckling if you do a heavy ‘wash’.
The more you practice, you will begin to get a feel for what works, and what you like to use.
Watercolour Paints
Invest in a set of good-quality watercolour paints that offer a range of hues and pigments.
Choose from tubes or pans, depending on your preference.
A travel size kit is also really handy if you want to indulge your artistic streak while on holidays – I highly recommend you do!
Brushes
Various brush sizes and shapes can help you achieve different techniques and effects.
Invest in round brushes (sizes 2, 6, and 10) and a flat brush (size 8) to get started.
Quality brushes that don’t lose their bristles through your gorgeous new masterpiece is a must.
Palette
A palette is necessary for mixing and blending your watercolour paints.
Taking you back to your primary school days, get creative and have some fun finding the hues that suit you!
You can either opt for a traditional palette or use a white ceramic plate or plastic tray as an improvised alternative.
Water Containers
Keep two containers handy – one for clean water and another for rinsing brushes.
You can rinse and re-cycle kitchen jars – just be sure to give them a thorough clean before use.
Masking Tape or Artist Tape
These tapes are handy for creating clean and defined edges in your artwork. Lay the tape down, create your masterpiece and pel off for a clean framed image.
Easy!
Pencil and Eraser
These basic tools help in sketching out your ideas before painting, just keep the lead fine and light and erase most if to leave just a shadow to follow with your paints.
Some artists also keep a few different sized fine point pens to traces over after painting their piece for an added effects or will sketch up a design to overlay with watercolour – the options really are limitless and totally up to you.
Spray Bottle
A spray bottle filled with water can be used to create beautiful textural effects on wet paint. A sponge also can help with creating cloud or leafy effects.
Learn the Skill of Watercolour Painting: Tapping Into Your Inner Picasso
Now that you have the necessary tools, it’s time to embark on your watercolour painting journey.
Learning this skill can be achieved through various approaches, don’t be scared to try a few and find what works for you.
Online Tutorials
Explore numerous websites and YouTube channels dedicated to watercolour painting tutorials. These platforms offer step-by-step lessons, tips, and techniques to help you refine your skills.
Follow a few different Instagram channels also and save the pieces that you might like to try your hand at. There are so many really talented people out there with a variety of styles and techniques you can learn from.
Local Workshops
Check for art studios, community centres, or artist collectives that offer watercolour painting workshops.
Joining a local class can provide you with hands-on experience, expert guidance, and the opportunity to connect with other art enthusiasts.
Books and Resource
Libraries and bookstores are rich in watercolour painting resources, including instructional books, guides, and art theory.
These resources can serve as invaluable companions on your artistic journey.
Practice, Practice, Practice!
Consistent practice is essential to master any skill, and watercolour painting is no exception.
Dedicate regular time to practice different techniques, experiment with colours, and allow yourself to make mistakes – they are part of the learning process!
I hope this has helped to encourage you to explore the fun and benefits of watercolour painting as a relaxation therapy and art therapy. With just a little learning and practice you’ll be well on your way to embrace the freedom, serenity, and therapeutic power that this beautiful art form carries.
Don’t be afraid to experiment, let loose, and let your creativity soar. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, watercolour painting offers endless possibilities and a beautiful world of artistic expression and exploration.
Let it transport you to a place of tranquility, where colours dance on paper, and your imagination knows no bounds!
Happy creating!