Painting in the shadow

Thomas, here’s something that I do on occasion when I’ve overworked the paper to the point that it would take color anymore, and I feel the painting is ruined.  I use Sakura metallic and moondust gelly roll pens over the watercolor.  It adds shine to the dull look that has occurred.  I get more compliments on these ‘saves’ then I do on almost any of my other paintings.

It’s more for fun, though, because I don’t think gel pens are lightfast, but you can get some cool effects.  The photo is already in the gallery so I’ve just posted the link here:

Members’ Watercolor Art Gallery

I would think that watercolor pencils would work.  I don’t know if they would bring back the vibrancy that use lose from overworking the paper.  I’ll have to give that a try, because I definitely overwork enough art.  When I’m reviewing, I even do it on purpose so I can see how sturdy the paper is.

Thanks for asking this question!  I’m self-taught – and self-leaning! – too and I really appreciate all of the answers.

Thank you, Terri.  Color is definitely a complex subject and one you can spend a lifetime learning.

These are great tips, Sandra. Thanks!

I can honestly say I cheat.. Until I learn better, lolol I go back in with water soluble oils pastels or water color pencils and even plain colored pencils or artist brush pitt pens.. (Within first 2-3 seconds the india ink is smudgable)

What Sandra said about complimentary colors is true, and also consider your tones or hues. Looking at your colors, online at least, shows me that your hues are almost all the same. Deep and rich tones…what you may try is varying the tones so that when you do shading, it shows up better.

Thanks Sandra, great advice