About: Fragrant Water Lily

work:da4bccc6-dfd3-4062-ae5b-3756e4eed354
Property Value
IDwork:da4bccc6-dfd3-4062-ae5b-3756e4eed354
@typerdfs:Resource, vad:Medium, vad:VisualArtForms, owl:Thing, vad:Art, vad:CreativeWork, vad:Watercolor, vad:VisualArts, vad:Painting, skos:Concept
copyrightNoticecopyright © 2024 Rick Spates. All Rights Reserved.
dateCreated2024-08-09T17:38:11
datePublished2024-08-09T17:38:11
descriptionA water lily blooming in the cypress swamp.
hasArtistProfilework:ebab5e0c-cc32-4928-b326-1ddb4dd62c22
hasPaperFabriano Artistico Grana Fina
hasPaperFinishCold press
hasPaperWeight300
height15
identifierda4bccc6-dfd3-4062-ae5b-3756e4eed354
image
labelFragrant Water Lily
licensework:CC-4-0
locationCypress Gardens, Moncks Corner, SC
mediaWatercolor
noteA visit to the gardens with Maybree and Ally
qrcode
tagthe:WaterLilyCriticism_20240729, the:WaterLilyEvaluation_20240729, the:WaterLily_20240729
width11
workOnSitehttps://rickspates.art
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tagthe:WaterLily_20240729
labelWater Lily Notes
descriptionFragrant Water Lily (Nymphaea odorata)
Two blue? dragon flies fly by in the video
One can be seen to the lower left of the lily
blue corporal dragonfly

Study of water reflecting trees.
Study of dragonfly.
Study pond scum

The water reflecting trees has an example in Richard Thorne watercolor

Green algae pond texture with blue mask yellow
Filamentous Green Algae (Pond Scum)

Mask all the white
Mask lily pads
Mask Azure blue sky, dragon fly and stick

Lily pads yellow glazed with chrome green
Chrome green underpaint in reflected trees, overpaint with indigo?

Finish reflected cypress trees
paint/draw trees in indigo
pen ripples
one wash overall
one cadmium yellow splash in wash
as it dries, decorate with c yellow at dry edges


https://cypressgardens.berkeleycountysc.gov/attractions/inbloom/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_corporal
tagthe:WaterLilyCriticism_20240729
labelCriticism
descriptionThis watercolor, while seemingly simple at first glance, reveals a thoughtful exploration of light, reflection, and the quiet beauty of nature. The artist demonstrates a confident handling of the medium, utilizing a predominantly cool palette to evoke a sense of tranquility and stillness.

The composition is anchored by the two luminous water lilies, their delicate forms contrasting with the darker, more textured surface of the pond. These lilies serve as a focal point, drawing the viewer's eye into the scene and inviting closer inspection. The artist skillfully guides our gaze through the interplay of reflections, creating a sense of depth and mystery within the water. The vertical lines of the reflected trees in the background further enhance this depth, adding a subtle dynamism to the otherwise tranquil scene.

Technically, the work showcases a mastery of watercolor techniques. The washes are applied with precision, creating subtle gradations of color and tone. The artist's control of moisture and pigment is evident in the soft blending of hues and the delicate rendering of the lilies. While the brushwork is largely invisible, it contributes to the overall sense of fluidity and organic form.

The painting's true strength lies in its ability to evoke a mood of quiet contemplation. The artist invites us to pause and observe the subtle nuances of the natural world, to appreciate the interplay of light and shadow, and to find beauty in the seemingly mundane. This is not a painting that shouts for attention; rather, it whispers, drawing the viewer in with its understated elegance and serene atmosphere.

While some might find the limited palette and lack of overt drama a drawback, it is precisely this restraint that gives the work its power. By eschewing grand gestures and bold colors, the artist allows the subtle beauty of the subject matter to speak for itself. This is a painting that rewards patient observation, revealing its depths slowly and leaving a lasting impression of peaceful contemplation.
tagthe:WaterLilyEvaluation_20240729
labelEvaluation
descriptionThis watercolor painting presents a serene and intriguing depiction of a water lily pond. Here's an assessment based on the elements you provided:

Composition:

Focal Point: The two prominent water lilies in the mid-ground effectively draw the viewer's eye. Their placement creates a natural focal point, emphasized by their size and detail compared to other elements.
Leading the Eye: The composition guides the viewer through the scene. The eye starts at the lilies, then moves to the reflections in the water, and finally to the background trees. This creates a sense of depth and exploration.
Balance and Harmony: The painting achieves a good balance between the elements. The lilies, water, reflections, and background are well-proportioned and harmoniously integrated.
Use of Space: The space is used effectively. The pond fills the majority of the canvas, creating a sense of immersion, while the background trees provide context and depth without overcrowding the scene.
Color:

Color Palette: The painting uses a predominantly cool palette with greens, blues, and whites, creating a tranquil and calming atmosphere. The touches of yellow in the reflections add warmth and contrast.
Mood and Atmosphere: The cool colors and soft washes contribute to a peaceful and contemplative mood. The subtle variations in the greens and blues create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
Contrasts and Harmonies: The painting utilizes both contrasts and harmonies. The white lilies contrast with the darker water and reflections, while the various shades of green and blue create harmony within the cool palette.
Light and Shadow: Light and shadow are subtly depicted through the variation in color intensity and the use of darker tones in the water and reflections.
Technique:

Watercolor Techniques: The painting appears to utilize a combination of washes and possibly wet-on-wet techniques. The soft blending of colors and the diffused edges suggest a skilled control of water and pigment.
Brushstrokes: The brushstrokes are mostly blended and subtle, contributing to the smooth and fluid quality of the water and reflections.
Texture and Depth: The artist creates a sense of texture through the variation in color and tone, particularly in the depiction of the lily pads and the water's surface. Depth is achieved through the layering of washes and the gradual shift in color intensity.
Subject Matter:

Depiction: The painting captures a quiet moment in a water lily pond, focusing on the beauty and serenity of nature.
Interpretation: The artist presents the scene with a sense of tranquility and contemplation, inviting the viewer to appreciate the delicate details and the interplay of light and reflections.
Story or Emotion: While there isn't a specific narrative, the painting evokes a sense of peace and wonder, capturing the essence of a natural setting.
Overall Impression:

Impact: The painting creates a calming and contemplative atmosphere, drawing the viewer into the peaceful scene.
Attention and Interest: The composition, color palette, and technique work together to capture and hold the viewer's attention. The subtle details and the interplay of light and reflections invite further exploration.
Emotions and Thoughts: The painting evokes feelings of serenity, tranquility, and appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Success in Conveying Vision: The artist successfully conveys a sense of peace and wonder, capturing the essence of a water lily pond with sensitivity and skill.
This watercolor painting demonstrates a good understanding of composition, color, and technique. The artist effectively uses these elements to create a serene and captivating depiction of a natural scene. The painting invites the viewer to pause and appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the moment.



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