Robert O'Brien Watercolor Workshop

Photograph Dale DiMauro

In southern Vermont, we have an art group called the Saxton's River Art Guild, which puts together a calendar of art-related events. On Saturday, I attended one of these functions, a workshop in watercolor held by Robert O'Brien, a Vermont artist. Often Saturdays do not work for me, but this timing worked out well. This extended period of rain closed the deal for me, too.

This is a photograph of the watercolor Rob worked on as a demonstration at the workshop. He arrived with the drawing for the painting transferred to his paper so he could readily start painting. The circular white areas in the foreground are where Rob applied masking fluid which is removed at a later point in his painting process. Masking fluid is used to preserve the color of the watercolor paper from further staining.

I have had some success with using masking fluid but often find it frustrating. So far I have used it in small areas of my paintings. The issue for me is that most masking fluid dispensers clog easily and some dry the same color as the paper. It is important to know where it is on your sheet. This way when you remove it, you can be confident that you got it all.

I believe the workshop had thirteen in attendance including Rob, which is a nice-sized group. There were many familiar faces and quite a variety of artistic approaches. It is good to get out as an artist and broaden your perspective.