Both paintings are from photos I took when we were in Colorado this past May-June for a HS graduation (but done back at home). For these two, I tried a wet-in-wet technique and mixed the watercolor paint on the wet paper, hoping to get more interesting color gradients. For the most part, I am pleased with the results.
Watercolor on 140 lbs paper 9x12
Another smaller painting from the same hike. I like the clouds and the foreground but the center piece rock out cropping did not turn out as I hoped.
Watercolor on 140 lbs paper 6x8
When we are visiting Colorado, we always try to do something active in nature. While there, we did a short hike in the foothills of the Rockies (Red Rock Canyon Open Space) as we did not have time to do some of the longer, higher trails. Even still, the views were spectacular, especially the skies. During the hike, the skies we clear blue with puffy clouds, however, as we heading back, the skies started to get ominous. By the time we were back at our hotel (~15 min later), the skies were black and it was a full on hail storm! Just another typical day I hear.
Perspective is yours alone, use it or lose it. . .or so the the saying goes. My perspective, from a vanishing point of view, is a bit skewed. But I think this one works.
Watercolor 11 x 8.5 on heavy weight paper 270 gsm
It was a hot day in Denver and I found a shady little spot with a neat little water feature. The bubbling vase was quite serene and relaxing.
The epic vistas of Colorado were certainly inspiring. Pike's Peak was as impressive as advertised. However, it was far too cold (27 degrees F) and the stay far to short to paint while up there, so this is from a photo reference as we took the Cog Railway back down the mountain. This may be one of my most favorite paintings that I have done in a long time.
Watercolor 11 x 8.5 on heavy weight paper 270 gsm
Below is the view from the scenic turnoff on I-25 (right by the AF Academy). It was hot and dry (typical alpine desert weather). And much like Lugano, the water evaporated as fast as I put it down. I think I over-worked this one a smidge or two. This one is not one of my favorites. . .
Watercolor 11 x 8.5 on heavy weight paper 270 gsm
