Painting the Colors of Nature

Every painter needs to understand the importance of color, but artists who paint outdoors need to understand as well how ever-changing light and atmospheric conditions affect the colors of the landscape, from the tiniest flower to the broadest expanse of sky. This is what Karen Simmons explores in Painting the Colors of Nature, in which she also demonstrates how good use of color can add a new dimension to painting in watercolor.

The author begins by discussing the materials and equipment needed for outdoor painting, suggesting palettes for different subjects. She then focuses on how specific pigments behave when mixed with water, and looks at how various colors can be combined to produce a range of exciting effects and textures (such as granulation). All of these aspects are examined in the context of many different landscape subjects, including waterscapes, skies, flowers, and the seasons. Simmons's explorations of color and light are illustrated throughout with sketches and finished paintings that are accompanied by detailed descriptions of the colors and techniques used to create them; some are further amplified by step-by-step demonstrations. Through her very accessible text and superb, light-filled paintings, Karen Simmons provides painters at every level of experience with both inspiration and practical advice about how color works in the landscape and how best to capture it in watercolor.