This week we tackled autumn leaves in watercolours. They really are the most beautiful subject, i think, and perfect for this tricky medium. There are techniques for all levels from patient layering, fluid experimentation to even printing with the leaves (and combining all these as well!). Really the only proper rule is to start with the light colours first. The beauty of watercolour is all about letting the white of the paper shine through, thereby utilising their amazing, and unique, transparency. Then you can build depth and intensity by working over the top with darker colours, or brightening the first colour with another layer. Judging when to go in with another colour – straight away when the colours are still wet, or when completely dry, and with how much water/pigment – takes practice, which the kids got lots of!
