On Ice

Reference Photo by Ruth Archer provides the challenge 
I have found fish paintings to be popular with collectors so when I sell one I like to have another on my studio walls.  I am not a photo realist painter so finding ways of capturing the subject that fits my expressive impressions style takes some thought. I loved an image by Ruth Archer on Paint My Photo of a catch of fish but wondered how I might paint the ice. Here are a couple of photos of the steps I took on my phone during the process of completing this painting. I used masking fluid to retain a few bright edges to the ice and when the work was finished I sponged on white gouache in places.

Not following the image realistically but using it for shape and colour.  I reversed the direction as I find this helps me create a work with more spontaneity  rather than copying a photo. I started by filling the page with eyes. I then added light washes of varied pretty greys with rose madder highlights. I then proceeded to bring out the bodies of the fish.
Steps 1 and 2

Finding the fish bodies


On Ice
Watercolour 28.5cm x 38cm
on Saunders Waterford Hot Press 300gsm Paper


Comments

  1. I love the reference photo, and what you have painted from it is really fabulous, Lorraine! The ice is very well captured, I read the process on the washes challenge blog. Interesting that you started with the eyes, they look very funny!

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  2. A wonderful watercolor!!! I love see your unique process to achieve ice and fishes.Bravo.

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  3. Fascinating process, Lorraine. It actually looks very realistic! The ice is super.

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  4. Great to see your process. You did a great job on the fish colors and the textured look of the ice.

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  5. So wonderful Lorraine! I really love these kinds of fish photos and to see your piece really tops them!

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  6. Good job ! You've captured it beautifully. !

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  7. Wow, I love this Lorraine! You are very clever!

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