MARIANNE WILHAM
Many decades ago, while minoring in Fine Arts in college, I was introduced to a variety of mediums which I thoroughly enjoyed. Over the years, I never pursued any due to the various responsibilities of a busy life; however, I always knew that one day l'd return to art. I did just that when I retired in 2007, starting with drawing classes and then moving on to Chinese Brush Painting. In 2011, I enrolled in a watercolor pencil workshop which I loved, and that has been my medium of choice ever since. Continuing to grow as an artist is important to me, so I still take classes.
The technique I use involves steps. First, I do a fairly detailed graphite drawing of the selected subject matter. Working in sections, 1 next use assorted watercolor pencils to lay down pigment, mixing as needed. When one section is completed, and using assorted brushes and strokes, I then apply plain water, moving the pigment around as the color explodes. After completing the entire painting, l tweak it all and correct values as needed. Although this process takes longer, I'm not in any rush and enjoy this creative process.
I consider myself a realist painter and strive to capture my subject matter as authentically as possible. And....... do LOVE detail! Selecting a new subject matter is never a challenge as l often choose from my own travel adventures.
Interestingly, the last few commissioned works I completed were of travel memories.
Having fun, creating and stimulating my brain have always been my goals; however, I'm pleased and humbled that many have purchased my paintings, and they hang in homes around the United States and England, and they have been featured on a British art website.