Fallen Leaves

Yesterday I began a new painting!

My two favourite seasons are spring and autumn.  I love seeing new life poking through the last mounds of snow in the spring and in autumn I am fascinated by plants as they let go of their visible life and make way for the long winter rest.

I came across some fallen leaves on the path under our oak tree and was amazed at the clarity and colour - I am also amazed at the pictures my iPad takes!  They are so clear and vivid.  After several days of pondering I decided to paint the leaves in watercolour.  First, I set up on excel the size I want the final painting to be, then I print it.  I also make a smaller print because it is usually just a tad more colourful than the large printing. As I paint I refer to both.  Then it is time to begin the slow transfer using carbon paper on to the watercolour paper.  While tedious it is necessary - and if I did not do it this way it would take me hours longer to draw out and transfer.  For many years artists have projected images on to paper then traced them.  This is the hidden, necessary structure behind the final painting.  Taking the photo is the inspiration:)

Then begins the slow meditative push and pull of water and paint, the adjustments of colour.  Where to begin is usually a conundrum. This time I turned the picture around and began at the top.  Then there is the wondering if I will actually be able to put together a harmonious blending of colours, if I will lose the light/white places which are essential in watercolours.  Now, after two days of work I am at the stage where I am liking what I see and want to proceed.

I know there are many hours before this painting is finished but I thought I'd share its beginnings as a way of reminding us all to appreciate the beauty of autumn's endings.