If you’re looking for watercolor painting ideas, start with this timeless live demo from Thomas Schaller, held during a 2020 presentation from Eric Rhoads. (Don’t miss Thomas’s demonstration at the upcoming Watercolor Live virtual art conference!)
In this interview, Thomas explains why and how he paints, as well as how to choose a subject and interpret what you see so that you can turn it into a “different reality” on paper or canvas.
Thomas started his career as an architectural illustrator, where he honed his skills in capturing the beauty of structures through watercolor. “I was much more interested in the imagery of architecture and drawing and painting in general,” he explains. This passion led him to develop a unique approach to watercolor that emphasizes design and emotional experience.
When it comes to composition, Thomas says he uses sketches to plan his paintings, adding that, “The power of design is crucial.” He numbers the values in his sketches to help guide his painting process, ensuring a balanced and dynamic composition.
Scroll down to watch the full video, and listen to a bonus interview of Thomas Schaller on the Plein Air Podcast. There, he talks about bad painting habits, developing good design as a painter, the one thing that has made him want to burn his brushes, and much more.
BONUS: Listen as Thomas W. Schaller shares the following in the Plein Air Podcast:
• Personal insights on his relationship with his father, which was “contentious” early on, but has a happy ending. “It turns out that he and I are very much alike.”
• The importance of his architectural experience and how it influences his paintings
• Thoughts on the fear-based resistance to plein air painting
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I’d love to see this but have limited bandwidth.