Artists in the Exmouth area were treated to online workshop with Kari McGowan, a well-known watercolour artist living in Devon earlier this month.

Exmouth Art Group, who were joined by Sidmouth Society of Artists, organised another ‘wonderful’ ZOOM demonstration by Kari McGowan an experienced watercolour artist who lives on the northern edge of Dartmoor.

Kari believes that watercolour is a magical medium – with water carrying pigment to paper, transmitting light through its transparency, inviting the painter to share in a process. Having accomplished its work, the water evaporates leaving its footprint - an image.

Kari demonstrated a painting themed on ‘Bluebell Woods’ based on a combination of photos she had taken, perfect for this time of year.

The idea behind the demo was to suggest looking through foliage, toward light. Kari believes that the nature of watercolour allows for an expression of light, both intense and subtly modulated, sensitive to atmosphere and versatile enough to convey character.

Kari started the demonstration by discussing the composition of the painting. She had a collection of photos that she used for her demonstration painting.

Kari also drew some tonal drawings, looking at light and dark and shaded areas. She described how she looked at values, used colour, lost and found edges, soft and hard lines, and the under painting to enhance the painting and the viewers experience of her artwork.

A spokesperson for Exmouth Art Group said: “Another enjoyable and excellent demonstration via ZOOM for our members. Next month we have another Devon based artist, Nick Watton.

“Anyone interested in joining the group – whether new to painting or experienced – and would like to join the Zoom meetings, then email the membership secretary at: membership.exmouthartgroup@gmail.com for further information.”

Starting in 1946 with just seven artists, Exmouth Art Group now has more than 200 members practising in an eclectic mix of media, disciplines and styles. Some trained professionals, others self-taught and with ages ranging across the full spectrum. Non-practitioners can also enjoy the creative and social benefits of a local art group.

Information for joining Sidmouth Society of Artists is available on their website: https://www.sidmouthsocietyofartists.com/.