Product Description

In watercolor paintings it is the masterful use of washes that creates depth, spontaneity and atmosphere. Joe Garcia provides clear, simple step-by-step instructions that teach the four basic washes: flat, gradated, wet-into-wet and streaked.

Painters will find plenty of guidelines and 33 demonstrations that combine these techniques to create light and shadow effects, as well as a variety of textures for popular subjects, including rocks, clouds and sand. They'll also learn how to develop unique textures and special effects using salt, a palette knife, masking fluid, sponges, dry brushes, spattering and lifting techniques.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #784054 in Books
• Published on: 2003-07
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 144 pages

From Library Journal
This exceptional volume combines great instruction, inspiration, and a subject of supreme importance to any watercolor artist. The wash is the most fundamental, most variable, and most characteristic technique in watercolor. Garcia believes that it's not difficult to master, and in this book he makes us believe it as well. He begins with the four basic washes: flat, graduated, wet-into-wet, and streaked. Further demonstrations combine washes and create textures (such as rocks, clouds, and sand). Garcia is particularly good at teaching advanced techniques using salt, a palette knife, sponges, spattering, and lifting. This book belongs in all but the smallest collections, which may want a more general book such as Hazel Harrison's The Encyclopedia of Watercolor Techniques: A Step-by-Step Visual Directory.
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

About the Author
Joe Garcia's work has been published in Wildlife Art, Watercolor Magic, and Splash 3. He teaches workshops and nature painting. Joe lives in Julian, California.

Customer Reviews

A Very Useful Book...............
There are many books on watercolor techniques so why should you buy this one? You should buy this book because it an excellent reference book to help you learn the "nuts & bolts" of painting watercolors.As an example I refer to pages 44&45, "The Gradated Wash".Here artist Joe Garcia gives you a clear definition of the technique followed by very direct instructions and clear photos on how to proceed.He then gives you a tip at the end to get the best results.While this book seems at first glance to be more of an introduction to basic techniques more advanced artists will find this book to be very useful as a reference resource.The book like all North Light books is well designed with many photos and illustrations.When I first saw this book I figured do I really need this one? The answer is yes for the reasons I have mentioned.The author also explains his preference for materials and using watercolor boards which he makes himself. Now that it is available in a paperback edition there is no reason not to consider buying it.

Watercolor washes by a master
Comprehensive guide to watercolor washes which includes an excellent range of examples, mostly of landscape subjects. Garcia is a very accurate detailed draftsman and some of the exercises can be challenging because of the detail rather than the actual technique. The book is well produced and a useful reference for the beginner and intermediate student.

Mastering the Watercolor Wash
This is a must have book for anyone wishing to improve their watercolor painting. The instructions are easy to follow and understand. Your work will improve with every page you
read.