Impressionism in Watercolor

Watercolor is the perfect medium for painting in an impressionistic style, because it lends itself so well to painting the effects of light - one of the main characteristics of Impressionism. In this video I explain the properties of Impressionism and demonstrate a painting that incorporates the techniques so unique to this style.
Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. If you enjoyed this video and would like to see more please subscribe to my channel and give this video a thumbs up. Thanks for watching!
If you found this tutorial helpful please consider making a donation on my website so that I can keep these tutorials free for everyone. www.laurelhart.com
My instructional watercolor book "Putting People in Your Paintings" is available at: amzn.to/2SXPOIt
Winsor & Newton 140 lbs. Cold Press paper: bit.ly/2GaohAh
Cheap Joe's Original Watercolor Palette (similar to mine) - bit.ly/2Y6mVML
Prints available in my Etsy shop at: www.etsy.com/sh...
Original watercolors available online at: www.laurelhart.com and at Relics Gallery in Salt Lake City, UT bit.ly/2EdiyrR
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Royalty Free Music: Eye of the Beholder by Alexis Messier purchased at www.premiumbea...

[@TooleyPeter]

Laurel, thank you for putting up with the odd internet troll to bring the rest of us so much joy. We love you and your work.

[@laurelhart2183]

You just truly made my day!

[@MaxineBotts]

I’m learning a lot from you! Thank you! Getting back and trying watercolors again. You are a big help….I’m 80 years young. Loving my Art time!

[@davidrolph3170]

Hi there Laurel, I think I am more of an impression painter than I think, I was going to say painting is fun and experimenting especially with impressionist painting and breaking the rules. I use water brushes and have my cloth close by. Those who give rude comments obviously have no idea, keep on painting

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you David. I appreciate this!

[@CreativelyUncorkedLIVE]

I really appreciate how you start with only the basic colors and mix from there.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks! It just seems to work best for me.

[@kaileilani22]

Laurel you are unbelievable you are the ultimate painter of light

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@bsarres3210]

all the opposite of this gentleman’s comment: very impressive! You are an inspiration, I love the way things look so easy with you! Thank you so much for showing us the way, for sharing with your heart. Your videos are great and so is your art!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much for taking time to leave such a nice comment!

[@Lauraisabelgonzalezart]

True talent always attracts trolls and haters. You're absolutely brilliant...and that means you shine!

[@laurelhart2183]

What a kind comment. Thank you so much!

[@DaniellaMakingLearningArt]

Hi, Laurel. Over the past year, your video tutorials were so helpful to me. They were high quality full length, valuable watercolor lessons. I want to thank you so much for taking the time to do them. I'm grateful.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for such a nice reply, Danielle. I’m glad if these videos have been of help to you. I truly appreciate your response.

[@sayangkahpadaku]

Just wipe off your shoulder to that negative comments, your work and talent are amazing, I wish I had just a tiny bit of them because I love watercolour paintings and I admire people who can draw and paint. Your video help me to learn more...thank you Laurel :)

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Yossie! Keep painting! I know you’ll get to where you want to be if you just keep at it!

[@melkel713]

Hello! Normally I do not care for tutorials with more than a few minutes of lecturing, but I was captivated by your video. Your presence, tone of voice & information provided was excellent! Thank you! (I’m not quite sure how someone could say that you were unimpressive.). I’m going to watch this video again.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you, Mel. I am honored that you are going to watch again! The cool story about Claude Monet getting his just desserts in that recent auction deserved a little time, I felt.

[@claudetteramaley7896]

I love how you teach by showing your pallet and paper with the original picture all at the same time. Your voice is very easy to listen to. Thank you. I hope to try and learn more. I am Impressed by your style and teaching!❤

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Claudette!

[@Wheemp_Whomp]

Thankyou! I’m learning to watercolor and want to be able to paint loosely and freely! Think this was super helpful to watch in learning to paint shadows specifically!

[@mlauren564]

With so many ways to do watercolor being demonstrated on KZbin, yours seems the most like magic. I love how the scene develops from your brush strokes! Thank you for sharing with us.

[@laurelhart2183]

What a nice thing to say! Thank you so much for watching and commenting.

[@mariakellner5429]

I appreciate all you tubers that take so much time and effort to share with us their method of painting, there is an off button for those that don't like it,Laurel you do you.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Maria! I’ll take this to heart!

[@marvmz]

I love your technique, demeanor and the way you explain things! Also, awesome camera set up. Great content overall!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting.

[@kbatwe55]

I am fan of your style impressionist water color style, there is lot to learn from your work.

[@deannerader6527]

I love the impressionistic style and thank you for your loose style and color!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for watching!

[@jornalistabr1]

Oh teacher, hor happy I am to know that you have lived in Brasil, my country. I hope, and I trust that you liked our landscapes, our sun light, our Nature colors. I love your classes, although Im just a beginner in this wonderful and relaxing hobby (for me) watercolor painting. Thanks, congratulations, and forgive me for my bad English. Obrigado e um abraço!

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Antonio! Yes I loved how beautiful your country is! So rich with natural beauty and warm people who welcomed my husband and I with open arms and hearts! I have so many subjects that I still want to paint from my time there! I’m glad you are taking up painting in watercolor! Thanks for watching my videos and for responding. And your English is soooooo much better than my Portuguese! Obrigada!! Eu te amo!

[@AndreGodoy1973]

Laurel, greetings from Brazil! And thank you very much for your generosity. I always learn a lot from you. Please excuse my bad English and may God bless you very much.

[@dabaumga]

Fantastic piece! And thanks for the full length tutorial - so helpful!

[@laurelhart2183]

You’re welcome!

[@menthessauvages1050]

Who are we to say how dare we say this work is good or bad ? The only right we have is to say I like it or not. Have fun and let the blind hearted envious or narrow minded spectators watch another channel ... and do not waste your precious time teaching the dunkeys. They do not want to learn. Their pleasure is to hurt. That is why it took me years To show my work even To my husband. Now it hangs proudly in my studio with a large view from the living room. I love your work and the way you share your tips.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for this comment! You are so right!

[@fxdaly]

Excellent painting

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks!

[@gregggibson3109]

My thanks also for bringing your experience and work to the internet. I enjoy your style and paintings, keep it up!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks so much!

[@misswangiya4834]

For me, this is just a very impressionistic and impressive piece of art. This helped explain me a lot about impressionism as well.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for watching!

[@rikardogibola1312]

'I feel pretty happy with it', and so you should Laurel, very nice painting. Thank you for your time. I'd be so proud if I could paint like you.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Richard. The truth is I’ve just probably been at this longer than most of you. Have you ever read the book, “Outliers”? That gives some perspective on how many hours were required for the likes of the Beatles and other professionals to get where they ended up. It’s a good read!

[@marcieandersen2635]

I LOVE your work! Those trolls know no value in true artwork! Keep up your fabulous job!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Marcie!

[@janejackson5207]

Thank you for so generously sharing your knowledge and technique, it is very inspirational and so helpful to a learner like myself. I really like that I can see what is going on in your palette and also how you fix it when things go wrong. The colours in this painting were just beautiful and I was amazed by how dark you painted the ladies head and yet it looked just right! You have made a great impression!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much for this comment!

[@karinchristensen220]

I painted in watercolors many decades ago and am preparing to start up again so your videos have been very helpful. One thing I remembered was that I loved watercolors but the other thing I remembered is that I hated stretching paper. I notice that you do not stretch your 140 pound paper. Is there less buckling because you are painting at an angle and "following the bead"? Back then I was taught to paint flat and with really wet washes the stretching never worked that well. I'm looking forward to painting at an angle so I can see what I am doing and not stretching the paper.

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Karin! The reason I don’t have to stretch my paper is the brand of paper I use. The angle and bead have nothing to do with it. The 140 lb. Winsor Newton coldpress paper will dry flat if I tape it on all sides coming in about 1/4”. It doesn’t seem to matter how wet I get it once it’s taped down, it will dry back without rippling on its own. It’s one of the biggest reasons I use this paper. I love it! Thanks for watching!

[@robertaneuhauser1418]

Very Impressive!! Thank you so much for these wonderful teaching videos. You have helped me so much!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for watching and for sharing this!

[@Rachel-art-and-design]

I love your work. Impressionism was my favorite part of art history classes.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Rachel!

[@carollundstrom6519]

This is lovely. Thank you so much for putting in the time and effort to make these excellent tutorials. I am learning so much from you.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Carol. I appreciate your comment so much.

[@jenniefrench1338]

Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous! I went to the Met last June and loved the paintings and Mary Cassett's also. I noticed in Cheap Joe's art supplies they sell Winsor and Newton wc paper and Winsor and Newton original wc paper. I don't know what the difference is. I recently tried Lanaquarelle and enjoyed it very much. Arches sold some machinery to Canson Heritage so my how things change. I thoroughly enjoy your paintings and teaching. Wc is my first love even though I do pastel and artist grade colored pencil paintings. Love your style!🤗

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much Jenny. Lucky you were able to visit the Met last summer. How sad that it must be closed up tight right now! I loved my visits there too!

[@Jennywatercolor7]

Very beautiful! I like your painting. Especially your color is very lovely.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks, Ella!

[@BIA_N]

Your work is impressive! I love it. Thank you for your videos.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for watching!

[@Mollineaux]

enjoy all your lessons very much, and particularly the way you arrange the presentation so that we can clearly see how you produce such excellent work. Your description of the French Impressionists and the movement as a whole is very informative but can't help wondering if one or two of them had seen the later watercolours & many sketch books of arguably the greatest English painter of all time, J M W Turner (1775-1851), who seems to have got there before them in some respects & said 'The sun is God'. Best wishes

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks so much for this comment. I wonder.

[@soniazawacki5459]

You’re such an inspiration! I really love watching your tutorials and appreciate your calm manner and desire to share your talents with us. Thank you! You really nailed this one today! (Impressionism is one of my favorite genres and I am blessed to have seen many of Monet’s glorious paintings throughout my life.) Please continue these lovely and inspirational videos!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Sonia!. I really appreciate your kindness.

[@Renilou2]

I love your work! I agree Laurel. People should paint in anyway that brings them joy. However, it's totally understandable that Impressionism was not as well accepted back in that old time period. Photography was not available to most and color photography did not begin until 1861. Even then, getting a photo of a loved one or beloved scene was not always an option. Anyone with the skills to depict an exact real subject in a painting was highly sought after and their work cherished simply because of that. Now, although the skills of those who can still accomplish this is still appreciated by some, for many subjects it seems pointless. Painted portraits are not actually needed now since photos are a dime a dozen. I am a Vincent Van Gogh fan and his paintings hardly sold in his time either. I personally appreciate all forms of art and painting. But, I have heard more realist painters get criticized than any other. Too many art teachers are telling students that realism is the wrong way to paint or not the best way. But I say as a watercolor teacher that there is no right or wrong way to paint. I personally have always been attracted to the little details in a painting. Like the little bug crawling on a flower by Susan Harrison-Tustain while one is beginning a bloom and another spent. It's not boring at all but tells a story. Any painting that tells a story no matter what style. is the key. So yes, people should paint in anyway that brings them joy. But should also pay attention to composition.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for this beautiful comment. I really appreciate your explanation of the value of realism. I will be more tolerant of those who love that style.

[@dododomdom]

whaa ... what a great artist you are and so generous to let us see you making spring the lights and gush the shadows ... so a good video with four plans : the artist, the palet, the painting, the model. At the end I stopped my breath like in a polar ... Thanks a lot to you ... 💜 from Paris

[@laurelhart2183]

Ahh...thank you so much. I’m honored by your words. And how I love your city and want to visit again!

[@annmariefrodsham_art]

I absolutely love this ❤️ only just come across your videos. I started painting a month ago (at age 37) with watercolours. Your videos are just so inspiring and your creations so delicate and lovely to look at. Bless you, and thank you ❤️❤️❤️

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for this kind comment!

[@mariedeangelo6100]

I really enjoyed this video. Excellent choice of colors. I’m going to try this video. Do you have a spot where I could show you what I’ve done.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Marie! You can send it to laureljhart@ yahoo.com.

[@marywhaley4675]

Finial. An ornament at the top end or corner of an object. Or hip knob, ornamental element marking the top or end of some object. I enjoy your tutorials. Sorry, I'm just a word person. Thank you for sharing.

[@laurelhart2183]

Oh Yay!! I knew someone would know the name for those things! My Dad was a builder, so yes, Ihave heard the term, but it surely went out of my vocabulary! I love “word people.” Language is another art form of its own isn’t it?

[@buhoz3986]

Hi laurel!! I'm chilean and I like so much your lessons .I like your technique!!! I'm going to try paiting too. Thank you a lot!!!!!!!!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much for following. I hope you fall in love with watercolor! It’s very addictive!

[@ottosidneyflores1946]

WOW, Lindo y muy impresionista. gracias por su tiempo.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for your kind comment!

[@monsibb]

sooo beautiful!!!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks, Monica!

[@kathiestrombom6155]

You teach me something new with every video. So much of what I consider to be my unique style comes from you Laurel. Thanks for this new one -- impressionism is my favored and favorite style -- and for all your wonderful demos that came before.

[@laurelhart2183]

What a nice comment. I’m honored by what you say.

[@watercolourkeyes]

You are very impressive, and your work is too! I hope perhaps that negative comment was a typo! I can’t imagine anyone saying anything about you or your work other than thank you so very much for the effort your videos must take, and for your willingness to share of your time, your extensive knowledge, and your exquisite talent. Thank you very much.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Liana for such a beautiful comment. Thanks for joining me on this journey!

[@boubella11]

I loved the art history lesson on the early impressionists and how that evolved. It takes being brave and to express your own way into finding your style. Thank you Laurel. Your style is very close to what i want to pattern my style after. It speaks to my heart. You are helping me to discount all those other voices that think a great painter has to paint photo-realistically. (Most of the time those are non artistic family members. Smile.). I often hear how close i have come to looking exactly like the photo .... and I am disappointed. So much great stuff to learn here. Can’t wait for the next time.

[@laurelhart2183]

Your comment about others not appreciating anything but realism rings so true with me as well. But I have educated my family members now to where they realize anyone can paint like a camera, but real artists express their own vision. Sometimes I fall short too, but it’s in the trying to pull that personal reaction out of your heart and bringing it alive on paper in only the way that you can that brings joy.

[@ShanKochiArtist]

Hai Mam..your work is beautiful.. My name is Shan, I am an Artist, most of my works are Acrylic and Oil colour .. Now I am learning water color with you... thank you .. thank you very much ...

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much! I am very honored!

[@ShanKochiArtist]

@@laurelhart2183 welcome Teacher....

[@vilasinikarnik8163]

Very nice , I learn about light and shadows Thank you

[@susanthrom3092]

laurel,I"m ne to your channel, thanks for the "history" and your common sense approach to impressionism...truly enjoyed the lesson .." what a pretty and restful picture...you inspired me..

[@annmatheson1712]

Laurel, I just love your work. You have helped me so much. I have really struggled with techniques to incorporate more colour into my art work I have watched many tutorials but i find yours the most helpful and have watched your videos dozens of times . I am not there just yet but ,continue to improve with your guidance, so please please do not stop. As someone else said people only lash out to try and make you feel as bad as they do .

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Ann. You’re so kind to share this.

[@ethicsexistentialism4191]

Just beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing and being the kind of teacher I craved but that I never had in my youth. Xx

[@laurelhart2183]

How kind Mary. Thank you.

[@BarbrajoanOriginals]

Laurel , I can't imagine anyone giving a negative comment.. I'm thrilled to have found you and watch your videos over and over.. I've written you before and discussed the W/N full sheets paper. Yes I see it's back . Before I order it I wanted to ask you if you find it as good as it used to be. Remember ? The pink label? From Tallahassee Fl.

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Barbra. Thanks so much for watching and leaving feedback. Your question is kind of loaded, because I definitely don’t want to get on the bad side of The Winsor Newton people. I think their products are supreme. However, if given a choice, I would take the old paper. It had two good sides and seemed maybe a bit thicker?

[@chrishayman1747]

Once again a great lesson in how to think about and plan a painting. You have helped and inspired me so much Laurel. I have confidence now to attempt paintings I never thought possible. I just received a copy of your book as well . Well worth the investment!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much for this comment, Chris. I truly never dreamed I was actually helping artists. I just started doing this as sort of an experiment, and now I’ve met so many wonderful artists like you!

[@michellevegangoodlife]

Fantastic. What a great artist you are Laurel. Love your videos. Excellent. Thank you.

[@laurelhart2183]

So kind of you to leave this feedback. It means so much!

[@KhushbuSinghh]

I needed to hear this today, thank you for teaching and saying these words for impressionism. I absolutely adore your work. I like the fact that you are open minded and so positive❤️

[@carissahernandez4101]

Beautiful! I learned so much from watching you thank you!!!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for watching!

[@christaallen9931]

I'm new go your channel and agree that your instructional set-up is incredibly helpful.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Dawn. I have a wonderful producer who deserves all that credit. If it were up to me, I would never have a camera on me, but he insisted!

[@margaretmartin6620]

This is so pretty, Laurel. Nice and sunny! I have always loved the French impressionists. They, of course, painted in oils, but watercolour does lend itself to showing off the light. You really captured the sparkle of the sunlight by taking advantage of the white of the paper. I also agree about the W & N paper. There is a rough side and a smooth side. I prefer the rough side. I find the back a bit slippy-slidey for my style of painting, as I use the hake and rigger a lot. Maybe I should try harder on the smooth side and save some paper! :) Thanks for another great video. I always get excited when I see you on here again. It's one of the most inspiring and relaxing times on the Tube! :)

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Margaret! I always enjoy what you have to say. And now I need to be careful because there are two of you. Luckily you have a couple of letters different in your first names! Thanks for backing me up on my paper theory.

[@patriciapierson6092]

Laurel - QUESTION: I, like you, draw out what I intend to paint. However, I sometimes smear the pencil marks. I try to draw as light as possible to avoid smearing. Sometimes it works and other times it doesn't. I like a soft lead. Do you think that may be the problem?By the way, I love your painting. It is a beautiful piece and the video was very informative!Thank you for sharing both your talent and knowledge!

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Patricia! I use a soft lead so it doesn’t dig into the paper-6B. Even though it is very dark, I don’t ding that it smears when I paint over it and I also have no problem in erasing out the lines after the painting I’d done. I think part of it is the paper too.

[@ginnysullivan5507]

This video was absolutely outstanding. Your teaching style is just wonderful and added to your beautiful work, is invaluable. Thank you for your inspiration.

[@laurelhart2183]

Ginny thank you. It’s comments like this that keep me doing this. I appreciate viewers like you!

[@larrymarshall9454]

I'm always excited when I see that you've posted a new vlog. Your work is, "impressive" :-) I've always felt that those defining impressionism are careful to separate themselves from realism/illustrative work but they completely ignore the need to separate themselves from the other end of the spectrum. Your work reflects realistic scenes. You may play with color and light but they are nonetheless "illustrative" of the scene you're painting. A lot of modern impressionism can't say the same.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Larry. The kind of Impressionism I love is a marriage or balance between the representational and the abstract. It’s the best of both worlds, in my view. Thanks for spending time with me.

[@colleenlipp8366]

Your work is beautiful! Don't let anyone sting you!

[@laurelhart2183]

Ha ha!! It’s hard not to let it sting when some people don’t get it, but as I said, we’re all in good company with the impressionists and their rejection!

[@PYNKN01Z]

So beautiful I love the soft shadow colors contrasting the soft pink wall, it looks like dream. I aspire to paint more impressionistic, a very very big challenge and acrylic paint is not helping, lol, so I'm getting more into watercolor for it's flowing properties. : D Love your work, hugs, Joule

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Joule. Yeah, acrylic it too hard and stubborn for me. Watercolor seems more alive when wet and dry. Now I’ve offended the acrylic painters, haven’t I?

[@ElmerEscoto]

Dear Laurel: Thank you so much for this. I learned about history of art as well as technique. It was most instructive. Thanks again! 🙏🙏

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Elmer for your comment. The impressionists are such an inspiration to me-not just because of their art but also their resilience and belief in themselves. I admire them so much!

[@zahoorjan6999]

Fantastic you are such a great teacher,God bless you,

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much! I’m glad you think so!

[@solar979]

I enjoy and like your work. There are many good painters whose work I don’t enjoy for some reason. I have never felt the need to say that to them because it is not important. Now, imagine the person who feels the need to say it. I am very satisfied that such person and I don’t like same things.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you. I think your comment is well said.

[@ginnysullivan5507]

Oops. I inadvertently touched dislike key-NOT TRUE. Your beautiful artworks, teaching methods and warm personality are treasured by me and many more. A national treasure.

[@laurelhart2183]

Oh my goodness! I would never consider myself to be a national treasure, but I thank you for your generosity!

[@sherrylee6719]

Laurel, I was the one who broke your heart by telling you about the Lowe- Cornell #8 brush. I have looked and looked and it is not to be found. I wish all of your followers would send the company and the art stores an email and perhaps they would bring it back. I loved the tutorial so much. Thank you for sharing your talent with us.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Sherry. Yes I hope anyone reading this who loves that brush would please email Lowe Cornell!

[@babytab1]

I found a website that had the size 8 but they were out of stock. There was a button to click that said "email me when back in stock." So I added my email to it and if they ever email me back I'll let you know!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Brittney! I hope you’ll share with us!

[@bethbenton3727]

Thank you for yet another fabulous tutorial, Laurel. I always enjoy watching you paint, always learn something new, and love your painting style. Impressionism has been my unwavering favorite style since I was old enough to start going to museums, and to start browsing the work of the masters. Pay no attention to the nasty comment you mentioned ... jealousy is a terrible thing. ;-)

[@laurelhart2183]

Ha ha ha! I love your final comment-thank you so much! And thank you for your support!

[@anabellamaldonado9617]

Hi Laurel first time I watched your instructional lesson. You are an amazing art teacher proving us the history of the impressionism art that really have inspired a lot of artists including myself. You are an inspiration and thank you for your generosity of sharing with us your knowledge and talent. I just subscribed and will look forward for your next lesson. God bless you.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much for watching and commenting, Annabella.

[@joburkeen6220]

Love the the way you explain your work

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Jo. I’m happy if it makes sense!

[@philippeelmalek2580]

Beautiful!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much!

[@eloisewalker352]

Beautiful. Thank you for sharing your artistry with us.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for watching Eloise!

[@bruceosborne1892]

Well, I think your paintings are marvelous. Thank you so much for helping me to hopefully paint better.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks, Bruce. Sharing that negative example that I did makes it look like I was fishing for compliments! 😂

[@bruceosborne1892]

@@laurelhart2183 Well if anyone deserves compliments, it surely is you. Your classes really inspire me and helped me a lot.

[@essietangle9931]

Enjoyed this very much. Today is the first day after Inktober, this morning I said to myself that I hoped we would have the pleasure of one of your videos and I was very happy to see it. I like trying other things but watercolor makes me happy. We are retired and we had enough pressure in the corporate world. We also learned that you just can’t make everyone happy no matter how hard you try. Towards the end of the video I wondered how you would handle the wrought iron. I have to admit painting them with a brush for me would have been a disaster but you did a great job. I always love the way you adjust your paintings as you go and explain to us why. Thank you!

[@laurelhart2183]

Hello Essie! Always a treat to read your comments. You are right-as in everything about life we can never please everyone so we just have to be content with pleasing ourselves and letting that be enough. It’s hard to do sometimes, but I’ve learned to let it not affect my efforts to paint the way I love to paint. Watercolor brings me so much joy, it would be a shame to spoil that by putting others’ parameters on how I want to paint. Thank you for joining me in my journey!

[@danthomas6587]

Obviously you impressed the people who count the most which is why you have the coveted AWS initials after your name. I liked the demo but had one question...why didn't you paint more of the iron gate? It has the impression of a gate but not the form...anyway, thanks for helping me learn more about this medium that I love so much.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for watching Dan. Your comment is very kind. In regards to your question on the gate-I guess I wanted to get away with as little as I could and still have it read as a gate. Again, leaving some things unsaid allows the viewer to “have their own say” as to what the painting is personally portraying to them. Hope that makes sense.

[@toequantumspace]

Excellent lecture and impressive painting!!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks Tom! You are very kind. Thanks for watching!

[@cdorothy444]

I like your work! I like impressionistic works too! I like Monet's paintings.

[@laurelhart2183]

I’m glad you do. Monet was so far ahead of his time and owe so much to him for staying true to himself!

[@kitkat9341]

Hi Laurel. Just LOVE your style and work! I do have a couple questions. Speaking from an acrylic artist standpoint, I have heard that shadows are warm and highlights are cool (opposite of what I would think), and also that the majority of a painting should be warm or cool. Do you agree, and is this a principle you work from? Thank you!

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Kathy. Thanks for your question. I think I have heard that if the light is cool, then the shadows will be warm and vice versa. I don’t have any scientific proof of that though. And in general, I think it is a good idea to have either a majority of warms or cools in a painting and not equal amounts. But as they say in Pirates of the Caribbean, these rules are more like guidelines. 😊

[@marymarple3537]

Once again I watched you painting so accurately - you have such a steady hand - I just had to marvel at the end when you decided to put in those fences - that took a lot of nerve - thank you for the inspiration - wonderful job!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for watching, Mary!

[@bonnieshapiro9180]

Laurel I wanted to let you know I recently ordered some LC brushes you have recommended. I was really impressed with them - they really come to a fine point. When they say ultra round - they really mean it. Anyway I wanted to let you know I called Loew Cornell to ask about the #8. They told me there was a problem with the #8 loosing hairs and they are re-doing them and they should be back on the market later this year or early next year. They also said that they have had other calls regarding these brushes. Isn’t that great news. I figured you would be really happy to hear this. Lots of great brushes out there but these are really nice brushes.

[@laurelhart2183]

Bonnie Shapiro This is the best news ever!! Thank you Bonnie! I’m delighted to hear this. Funny, I never noticed a problem with my #8s losing hair.

[@jo-annecraig3023]

I haven't been able to find them. Where did you order from?

[@bonnieshapiro9180]

Jo-Anne Craig I ordered them from Dick Blick. Except #8 which hopefully we’ll be able to order in a few months.

[@judybreedlove5348]

Very lovely impression, Laurel. I always look forward to your tutorials. I was right there with you "painting" in the shadows. I'll have to look for my own photograph to create my own impressions. Thank you for another inspiring lesson.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for your continued support and wisdom, Judy. I look forward to your comments each time.

[@salliemae123]

Absolutely beautiful, Laurel! Love your style. (The thingys at the top of the posts are called finials.) And if the painting thing doesn't work out, you have a bright future in photography!

[@laurelhart2183]

You are so kind! It’s funny you say that about photography-I get just as excited on my photo excursions as I do doing the actual paintings! And thanks for the word I was searching for! Yes, finials!

[@diannemiddaugh2478]

I enjoyed your lesson. Thanks so much. Great art history lesson also.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks so much, Diane.

[@shirleycovey7309]

Lovely impressionistic painting! Thank you, Laurel!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks, Shirley!

[@marianaeksteen4437]

Thank you - once again I enjoyed your teaching. Luv your work. Greetings from sunny South Africa!

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Mariana! I’ve been to South Africa. My parents lived in Johannesburg fort a few years, while my father was in charge of building the Johannesburg temple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Anyway I fell in love with so many beautiful people and places there. We went to a place called pot hole falls or something like that which was one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever seen! Thanks for watching!

[@dazzlingburritoes5693]

can you please make both time lapses and real times for some videos too. I really enjoy your painting processes in real time too. I watch them when I paint. But I feel like time lapses can be a lot entertaining sometime for easy watching.

[@omaracosta1264]

Gracias Hermosa Maestra por tus palabras inspiradoras y la cultura que en ellas transmitiste , llegaron a mi vida en el momento justo con toda tu luz! Saludos desde Argentina 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♂️🇦🇷🇦🇷👏👏👏👏🙏🈴️❤️✒️🖌

[@laurelhart2183]

Gracias Omar!

[@zamaragreenwood5916]

This was absolutely beautiful, I love the colors in your painting, they remind me of candy

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you! That’s fun to hear!

[@sherrikent6628]

Your art is beautiful, and impressive! I love it.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you for commenting, Sherri!

[@sooart5333]

love it.very nice work!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@anetajohnson8446]

Hellow from one watercolor artist to another! Looking at your paintings shows me I can call you a Master! A master watercolorist! we all have differant styles we like and use, according to how we were taught, or developed. My question to you is, should an artist paint to satisfy his/her, self? or to paint so the picture will sell.or are both ways exceptible. iv noticed at art fairs , that women are generaly attracted to paintings that match there home decore, ! or colors that appease them, where a male will like a painting of something he can identify with! person, place, or object.detailed, with realistic rendering. Whats your take, on that? I think "First," we should ask ourselves, "Whats the reason for painting this?

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Aneta! Your question is a good one and one that I struggle with at times myself. It is tempting to paint what is currently popular, hoping that it will appeal to buyers and decorators, but I have found that real satisfaction comes when I paint something that is meaningful to me. And sometimes, what is currently popular, happens to be appealing to me too. Commissions are often hard to do also for the same reason that we might not feel an emotional connection to them. Your observation about men and women’s likes in art is an interesting one and for the most part quite true. All in all I think we as artists are more fulfilled when we stay true to ourselves and not pander to public whims. But it’s kind of easy for me to say that when I don’t have to rely on my painting income to live on. It can be quite a different story for those artists who do have to make a living on their art. Also, thanks for calling me a master-I ‘m not sure about that title though!

[@happyfarmer979]

I learn so much from you. Thank you.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for watching!

[@michaelnagy6630]

Wow.. You are an amazing artist!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you Michael!

[@marabalorios]

Está divino...!🎨🎨🎨

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you so much!

[@sarahmiller6183]

As usual, beautiful. Thanks for the art history too.

[@laurelhart2183]

Thanks for your feedback, Sarah.

[@2lmdi]

Wonderful work! Thank you for the Impressionist history. Why oh why does Cornell retire brushes like they do. I don't see other brands doing that. My favorite brush of all time is a Dagger LC that I've tried for years to find a replacement for in other brands without success. I keep it in a case and bring it out only for special work but miss using it all the time.

[@laurelhart2183]

I don’t know why this happens-and it’s only the one size-the very one I use the most! I’m going to have to follow your example and keep mine locked up somewhere!

[@2lmdi]

www.jerrysartarama.com/beste-finest-golden-taklon-hair-brushes I just checked and, unfortunately, don't have a LC 8 Round. I sure would send it to you knowing how you feel. LC is my favorite brand of brush across the board actually. For reference, I don't like Silver Black Velvet finding that they don't hold the point and don't like Princeton Neptune for many reasons with the handle weight and feel being my main dislike. So far the closest I've gotten to my LCs is what I've linked to above. Jerry's is, so far, the only place I've found them and I currently have 8 Daggers in my cart, a few Round Nadels (don't care for their "bushy") and filberts I prefer for gouache.... just in case! ;-) These should last the rest of my life but if they don't and they don't discontinue, they're inexpensive enough to replace. That price is just a bonus as I would pay much, much, more to get that close to my LC.

[@judyonody7748]

Thank you Laurel! I love your work and I always learn something from you! This time, I was feeling very anxious to see if you were goi g to add the bars of the gate. I was fascinated to see how you lifted and lightened the bars over the darker areas of background... I would have darkened them more... I’d love how it looks, but I just would not have ever thought to do this. Can you share why you did this? Something I must add to my repertoire!💕

[@laurelhart2183]

Hi Judy. Do this experiment. Go outside and look at some telephone wires. Notice how they appear dark when they are in front of something light like the sky, and yet they can appear very light when they run across something darker than they are. It is all relative to whatever value they are up against. So that was why I made the bars light in some places and dark in others, depending on what value was behind them. It also adds pleasant variety in making some bars positive (painted on) and some bars negative (wiped out). Hope this makes sense. Good question.

[@judyonody7748]

You are just amazing! Not only do you devote your time with demonstrating your beautiful paintings with us , but you take the time to respond and teach more! What a generous and talented person you are! Thank you so very much! And yes! Your suggestion works and I now make a point of noticing this visual perspective as I am outside! Now I intend to try the technique in my next painting! ❤️ Please don’t ever let negative people stop you from being such an excellent teacher! You have a gift!!

[@laurelhart2183]

Thank you!

[@rosarebada4777]

The inspiration I crave, demonstrated with heart and talent, thank you so much. Not just impressive, but lovely & amazing! Be of good strength.

[@laurelhart2183]

How nice Rosa. Thank you for your comment!