Four Watercolor Artists Share Key Fixes to Transform Paintings
In a feature from Artists Network, four experienced watercolor artists offer practical advice on common mistakes that can significantly improve a painting. Andy Evansen emphasizes simplifying distant details to create depth, as seen in his work 'Central Park Spring' (watercolor on paper, 11 x 15) and its value study. Michael Holter highlights the ease of lifting color from dried watercolor using tools like a stiff brush, Magic Eraser, or scraping with an X-Acto blade, demonstrated in 'Golden Harbor' (12 x 16) and 'Side Hill' (14 x 8). Carrie Waller stresses the importance of balancing positive and negative space, as shown in the before-and-after of 'Summer Cuties II' (15 x 29), where added negative space enhanced atmosphere. Laurin McCracken advises correcting areas that disrupt the eye's flow, either by lightening or darkening, as in 'Oranges in Plastic Bag' (15 x 20). The article also promotes subscriptions to Watercolor Artist magazine and digital editions, including the Southwest Art August/September 2026 and Watercolor Artist Fall 2026 issues, and 'Best of Watercolor: Winners of the Splash 27 Competition'.
Key facts
- Andy Evansen recommends leaving distant details simplified to improve depth in landscapes.
- Michael Holter demonstrates lifting color from dry watercolor using stiff brushes, Magic Eraser, or scraping tools.
- Carrie Waller emphasizes the importance of negative space for visual rest and atmosphere.
- Laurin McCracken suggests correcting small areas that impede the eye's movement through a painting.
- The article includes specific paintings: 'Central Park Spring', 'Golden Harbor', 'Side Hill', 'Summer Cuties II', and 'Oranges in Plastic Bag'.
- The feature is published on Artists Network and references Watercolor Artist magazine.
- Digital editions of Southwest Art and Watercolor Artist are available for purchase.
- The Splash 27 Competition winners are featured in a digital edition.
Entities
Artists
- Andy Evansen
- Michael Holter
- Carrie Waller
- Laurin McCracken
Institutions
- Artists Network
- Watercolor Artist