Watercolor studies of Beatrix Potter

It was suggested by an Art Director that I should take some time and study Beatrix Potter artwork, specifically her watercolor technique.

 

"Her watercolor work to this day is some of the best … ever. What I see if your work could stand to employ these adjustments. Try this: take a simple work of hers, and copy it as accurately as you can. Force yourself to use the colors she uses. Train your hand to not always go for the straight out of the tube (or brick) color."

So I have been spending time studying Beatrix's artwork, I have an incredible book of hers called "Beatrix Potter The Complete Tales" and I sketched out an handful of her beautiful characters. I have more sketches that I plan to work on.

 

 

  One of the things I've changed was the settings on my scanner; so I don't get hot bright pops of color, much closer to my originals colors using this setting.
When I got this scanner I was thrilled how it picked up such a range of what I was working on. I even liked the POPs! of brightness (hot) . But I am emulating Beatrix Potter so...
 

   Before                                              After 

 

I start with a pencil drawing , followed by adding watercolor, India ink with a brush, and more color to finish. This is how I have been working for the last six months. I love working this way it allows me to decide to add or leave out ink line; I feel I get more of a balance between line and color.  

 

Before ink is applied

Before ink is added

Ink line added needs a little more color 

 

 



Finished artwork
easy!     

 

 

In no way does a few studies of Beatrix's artwork make me an expert but I am enjoying the process I'm looking forward to creating more soon   

 

(Just so everyone knows I left the shadows created by the scanner I didn't feel like cleaning them up)