Watercolor Painting Tips for Beginners

Posted August 9, 2019 by Betsy Craumer

Watercolor painting can seem like daunting work, especially for beginners. While playful, watercolors can also be hard to control and unforgivable with mistakes, two things that don’t mix well with beginners. However, there are ways to master this tricky medium.

In the past, we’ve taught you some acrylic painting tips. So now, here are some watercolor painting tips to get you started on improving your artwork.

Use the right materials

Using the right materials will go a long way in improving your watercolor artwork. For instance, you should be using only watercolor paper, as this paper is made specifically for watercolors so that it absorbs moisture in the right ways. You should also focus on your brushes. You don’t need a huge assortment, but you should have some of the basics—a small, medium, and large round brush, a mop brush, and a flat brush.

Paint light colors first, then dark

Because watercolors are unforgiving to mistakes, you’ll want to work backwards. That is, you should paint your light colors first, and then your dark. This is because dark colors are harder to correct than light. Another reason is because due to the transparency of watercolors, light colors won’t show when painted over dark colors.

Don’t add too much water, or too little

Yes, these are watercolors, but that doesn’t mean your paint should be overloaded with water. You also don’t want to deprive your paints of color. What you want is a happy medium of water and paint. There’s no clear-cut way to doing this, as you’ll want different ratios of water and paint for each color, so the best way is through experimentation. Keep some scrap paper around and then, after mixing the water and paint, test out the color before adding it to your canvas.

Use the side of your brush

Due to the abrasiveness of watercolor paper, constantly using the tip of your brush could ruin your brush over time. So, in order to better preserve your brushes, paint with the side of your brush instead of the tip.

Mastering watercolors can be difficult, especially if you’re working on your own. If you find you’re practicing these tips, but still not finding results, then it may be time to sign up for a watercolor painting class. At Creative Ventures Gallery, we offer several watercolor painting classes. Sign up today or give us a call at 603-672-2500 for more information.

How to Find Artistic Inspiration

Posted July 12, 2019 by Betsy Craumer

Writers have to overcome writer’s block; artists, on the other hand, have to deal with artist’s block. It’s essentially the same thing, but instead of struggling to put words on a page, artists struggle to put paint onto the canvas. It happens to everybody, even the most seasoned artists, but thankfully there are ways to find some inspiration once again:

Go for a walk

Staring at a blank canvas isn’t going to help you create anything. In fact, it’s better just to get up and get away from the canvas for a little while. Getting some fresh air outside is a great way to take a break and find some inspiration. Listen to some music, a podcast, or simply let your mind wander as you take in the scenery.

Start doodling

When you’re all out of artistic inspiration, one of the best ways to get back into the swing of things is to pull out a pencil and some paper and start doodling. It doesn’t have to be anything particular, it can even be just some stick figures if that’s all you can muster, but as you doodle, your mind will wander and explore new opportunities for your creative projects.

Try a new art technique

You may be lacking inspiration because you’ve been doing the same thing for too long. Try to spice it up a little bit by working with new techniques or ideas. For example, if you’ve only worked in acrylic, take a swing at pastels and see where that takes you.

Just do it

When all else fails, just create. It doesn’t have to be good but putting something down onto the canvas will help get you out of the rut. Plus, in many cases, a lack of inspiration stems from a lack of self-confidence, so by putting your self-criticism away and allowing yourself to paint anything, even if it’s terrible, you will be free to create whatever you can.

Take an art class

If you’re still feeling uninspired, a great way to spark your creativity is to take an art class. This will not only teach you new techniques to try, but it will also provide you with a group of like-minded individuals who can help you get out of this rut. So if you’re in the Milford, New Hampshire area, contact Creative Ventures Gallery or look through our available classes and workshops to see how we can help you find your artistic inspiration.

Why Your Child Should Attend Summer Art Camp

Posted May 10, 2019 by Betsy Craumer

When summer rolls around, you want to make sure that your child doesn’t spend it just sitting on the coach playing video games. Instead, enroll them in a summer art camp where they can learn all sorts of skills and meet all sorts of people. Here are a few reasons why they should sign up:

It’s great for beginners

If your child has been interested in art, summer art camp is a great place to start. They’ll be learning from some of the best teachers around, with all of the tools and materials they need at their fingertips.

Art inspires creativity

Putting a pencil or paint brush in your child’s hand can lead to all sorts of benefits. Art inspires creativity, and that creativity will not only lead to beautiful works of art, but greater empathy, social skills, and problem-solving skills. It can even help our mental health, no matter your age.

There’s something for everyone

Summer art camp is not a one-size-fits-all camp; there are plenty of different forms of art for your child to practice. Maybe they love painting nature scenes, or maybe they enjoy scribbling with colored markers; either way, there are certainly lots of options for them to choose from.

Meet new friends

One of the best things about any kind of summer camp is the ability for your child to meet new people and make new friends. With like-minded, art-loving people all around, your child is bound to form long-lasting friendships.

If you’re in the Milford, New Hampshire area and looking for a summer art camp for your child, then take a look at Creative Ventures Gallery’s Summer Art Camps. We offer two camps—Art Inspirations and Painting and Drawing from Nature—which we’re sure will spur on your child’s creative streak.

How Art Can Help Your Mental Health

Posted April 12, 2019 by Betsy Craumer

It’s no secret that in recent years, mental health conditions have been rising across the U.S., especially among youths. What’s even more unsettling, is that most Americans with mental health conditions don’t receive adequate care. But what if we told you there was a way to help? Recent studies have suggested that one of the best forms of therapy for those struggling with a mental health condition is, in fact, art. Here’s how:

Emotional release

Sometimes emotions can’t be put into words, and when you’re unable to express yourself, it can lead to a lot of pent-up anxiety and stress. Art, however, provides you an outlet without words, allowing you to express and let go of all of your feelings, fears, and insecurities.

Stress relief

Painting, drawing, and other forms of art will not only release pent-up emotions, but also give you a break from your anxious thoughts. Art forces you to focus on the task at hand, the present moment, and in that way it’s very similar to a meditation practice. Everyone needs a break, after all, and your mind is no different.

Self-esteem builder

Creating something with your own hands is a rewarding experience that few can describe. And, if you keep completing projects, you’ll be able to watch your progress as you turn from novice to expert. The process will give you a feel of accomplishment, boosting your confidence in yourself and your abilities. Even more, you’re focusing on positive experiences and emotions, instead of negative ones.

Socialization

Art doesn’t have to be a solo activity. By participating in art classes or workshops, you can make friends and interact with people. Socialization is proven to help those with mental health issues, giving them a sense of belonging and a supportive group they can turn to in times of need.

Here at Creative Ventures Gallery, we believe that the creative process enriches all lives. So, if you’re struggling with mental health issues, sign up for one of our classes or workshops and see how art can be a positive force in your life.