Definition and Characteristics of Watercolor Painting

Watercolor painting, in simple terms, is a painting method that uses pigments and water to mix. It is not as thick as oil painting, nor as strong as gouache painting, but relies on the fluidity of water and the transparency of pigments to express the picture. This painting method is particularly dependent on the element of "water" - too much water will make the color blur, and too little water will make the brushstrokes dry easily, so people who play with watercolors often say "three parts painting skills, seven parts water control".

The most distinctive feature of watercolor is its transparency. Because water is added to the pigment, the white of the paper itself will be revealed when it is painted on paper, and the color of the bottom layer can be seen when layers are superimposed. This effect is particularly suitable for expressing light and shadow and air. For example, when painting a leaf, you can first use yellow-green as the base, and then add a few strokes of dark green while it is wet. The edges will naturally blur, just like the feeling of sunlight shining through the leaves.

Another feature is "irreversibility". It is difficult to modify watercolors after they are dry, so veterans will make a draft first, or use white glue to protect the highlights. The mistake that novices often make is "too much". Applying too thick a color will lose the agility of watercolor. Experts know how to use a clear water pen to create a gradient effect.

The choice of tools is also very particular. Watercolor paper is divided into cotton pulp and wood pulp. Cotton pulp has better water absorption and is suitable for repeated layering; pigments are divided into transparent and opaque. Transparent colors are suitable for base colors, and opaque colors are used to brighten. A good pen can store enough water to make the painting smooth.

This copy explains the core concepts and operating techniques of watercolor painting in the tone of daily chat, avoiding the academic terminology pile. If you need to add specific work examples or technical details, you can tell me to adjust the direction at any time.

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