One place that never fails to provide inspiration is my local library. The library is often my first stop when I begin a project. Watercolor is one type of media I am interested in exploring. I have dabbled a bit with watercolor but it was mostly as a child. Since I am more or less a beginner with watercolor, I started by searching the online library database with keyword ‘watercolor’. I found several books on watercolor for beginners, which I checked out during my latest visit to the library. However, I also checked out a DVD titled, “Portraits in Watercolor: Part 1” by James Kirk.

As is common with many artists that I know, I procrastinate. So, of course, I watched this hour long DVD the day it was due back to the library. And to my great surprise, it was excellent. The DVD is set up into exercises and I plan to follow the exercises, 8 in all. I will complete each exercise and will post about it.

The first 5 exercises do not use watercolor at all. They are drawing exercises. I agree with Mr. Kirk’s opinion that drawing is/should be the basis for art projects. Even as a graphic designer by profession, I believe it is imperative to begin on paper and to constantly hone drawing skills. When I rush straight to the computer to complete a project, it is usually lacking and is rarely something I am happy with.

So, without further adieu, Exercise 1. Exercise 1 is to create a non-representational line drawing. I chose to use pen and ink for my drawing.

Exercise 1 from “Portraits in Watercolor: Part 1” by James Kirk; a non representational line drawing.