This week I put the final strokes on my watercolor of the market in Xian, China. Most people I know don’t recognize the name of that city until I mention that it is where the terra cotta warriors were discovered and are being unearthed. This wonderful street market can’t compete with the terra cotta soldiers as a cultural attraction, but I loved our visit there and consider it a wonderful aspect of current Chinese culture.
It’s often hard to know when a painting is “done.” What additional detail might be needed? Last Monday I set up my paints at home to add a few final touches to this painting. Did it. My husband noted that some shadows were needed. Did that. The “finished” painting perched in the dining room for a day. I decided some color was needed in the back. I brought it to class on Wednesday to put those FINAL touches on it. I was doing that when Wan pointed out where some dark shadows would show more dimension in the clothes rack. Check. Tara suggested I darken the windows in the distant building. Right. Wan and Tara, both watercolorists, have given me much valuable help all during my four years of learning to paint. I think their suggestions about the market painting really improved it. (Thank you, Wan and Tara.) I’ve declared the painting done and signed it. Here it is.
Marian Wiseman
Watercolorist
It’s a great piece, Marian and captures all the color and life of the scene.
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I think this is a real triumph. Marian took on not only the complexity of the fruits and vegetables as well as buildings and garments, but people. And handled it really well. I am eager to see how this market series progresses.
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Me, too. I can hardly wait for the next in this colorful market series.
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I’m looking forward to further installments of your colorful market series. Doing a series is such a fun idea. I’m just starting the second in my Antarctica Animals pastels.
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I really like this piece. You do excellent work! Keep ’em comin’, we need eye candy. 🙂
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it’s fantastic, Marian. Congratulations on a beautiful water color.
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Janet, great to see your compliment. Miss you!
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It’s becoming very obvious (to me) that you are taking the time to learn the craft versus just splashing paint around to see what happens. I see something different every time I take a look at your endeavor.
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Hey, Rog,
Thanks so much for taking the time to look AND comment. It really keeps me going to hear from others (craving approval, attention . . . )
Speaking of art–are you writing songs? I still listen to the CD you sent me. Actually, 2 CDs. One by you and one of your favorite music.
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Marian, I love your painting! I can hardly wait to see the real thing!
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