Learning To Paint In Gouache
4yr
Gannon Beck
I've been playing around with gouache a bit lately. To study, I've been watching Jeff Watts videos and practicing small heads to get a feel for the paint and trying to get control of my values.
I've got a long way to go, but I can tell gouache is the medium for me. I like that it can be used in an opaque manner, and that I can set it aside and work on it whenever I have time. Even the drying time just seems to suit my temperament.
I'm sure I'll do larger studies, color studies, etc. For the short term, I just want to create a painting habit in my life to build up brush mileage as Jeff Watts says.
I'll post to this thread as I go to track progress.
Very good! Pretty impressive for being first attempts, I wish I had your clear understanding of values when I tried gouache for the first time. It seems you very carefully saved the white of the paper, which is a way to paint in gouache I always appreciate. I am following Watts lessons as well, hoping they will help me developing a deeper and more disciplined approach to this medium, and yes, growing a stronger painting habit. Really good job!
Gauche is a fantastic medium that is very underrated.
When I was at school my teachers tried to talk me out of using it and into acrylics (which I never liked for painting, too limited. I only use them for plastic models).
The only time I ever responded to a teacher (I suffer from anxiety!!!) was when the graphic design teacher told me for the umpteenth time to use acrylics instead "No! I refuse, I'm disgusted by them, do you understand?" "You mean like cockroaches?" "Not at all, Cockroaches are interesting insects!"
It's a really versatile material and you can apply it in a lot of different ways depending on the dilution.
The only problem is finding a good brand in which the pigment is well ground, especially when it comes to black.
I recently sent for a supply of paints from a historic Florentine factory that a friend suggested (apparently they also supplied some French Impressionists), because I'm going to paint some landscapes.
I haven't had time to try them yet (stupid job!) but maybe I'll open a post with a review later.
For first attempts, your studies are definitely very good!
I dare not imagine what level you will be at in a few months :D
Well done, really!
These are super clean!! nice contrast as well! When I was starting out on gouache I mostly did muddy stuff because I wasn't very good at mixing XD
These are great! I like how you've included a background in each one. I always forget to do that...