Still continuing to practice abstract art using watercolor! As I follow Alena Henessy’s classes, though, I tend to get a bit frustrated not being able to make a proper abstract painting so rather than emulate her style, I decided I go my way and choose the “kawaii path”. Alena, for instance, tends to use a lot of rounded oval shapes known as “orbs” and works her way from there. Her paintings do turn out beautifully, and I do enjoy learning her method, but I felt it would be a good idea to develop my own variation. Here is an experiment using the techniques I picked up from Alena’s classes and seeing how it turns out when adapting my own style!
The Start
This time, better quality paper was selected, Van Gogh’s Watercolor Paper by Royal Talens, 300gsm 24x32cm. I’ve had this sketchpad sitting in my drawer for quite some time but resisted using it because it is glued on each edge to avoid curling, and I could never figure out how to tear the sheet out without the risk of ripping the completed painting. Then the shop owner at our local art supply store told me there is one corner where it is not glued so you can easily remove the sheet. Good to know! To match this better-quality paper, top-quality watercolor like Kremer’s watercolors was then chosen. It is a German brand, and what I love about this set is the use of natural pigments which is not only sustainable but also gives strong color intensity. As you can see, I had an easier time getting the flow going using my own style I am more comfortable with. Love the different blues in the “sky”, and enjoyed just painting the bunny, kitty and bear! In particular, the kitty turned out quite amazing with the blend of yellow and oranges especially just below the neck.
Getting the Hang of It
I guess I should have worked on the entire background first before painting the animals but I couldn’t resist the cuteness! Not to worry, I managed to work around them. Experimenting with a range of green from the Kremer Pigment Watercolors was an amazing experience as I watched each shade just blend together organically. The only challenge was trying to get the green from bleeding into the subjects without an obvious blank gap between the animals and the background. Nevertheless, I am quite happy with it and figured adding the eyes on the animals could add to the distraction. Some Uni Posca pens were used for this purpose. Perhaps I could have introduced more details into this painting or doodle a bit of flowers or squiggles but I prefered to keep the focus on how beautifully the watercolors blend and merge together to create interesting patterns and textures. So here we are!
It certainly goes without saying quality of paper and mediums is most crucial even for the inexperienced like myself. Despite how simple this painting is, the effects are quite amazing because of that. Amazing that introducing cute and kawaii could also end up as a stunning abstract watercolor painting. I could indeed do with more practice of course but it’s a good start and I do look forward to churning out more!
Please click here for more about Alena Hennessy and her amazing classes!
My Kawaii Quarter 