Setting Tone & Atmosphere with 1st wash

Part 2 of this painting • Unlocking Watercolor P...
Casa Bonita has been a beloved Denver landmark for 50 years. While it's not known for its gourmet cuisine, it's a fantastic destination for families with its lively atmosphere, iconic cliff divers, and delicious sopapillas.
As a Colorado native and longtime Denver resident (over 35 years!), I'm excited to see the South Park creators bring this classic spot into the new era. I haven't had the chance to visit since the renovation, but it's definitely on my to-do list!
As an artist with a passion for architecture, Casa Bonita's unique pink facade has been on my mind since its re-opening in June 2023. My first piece in my "Denver Icons" series is a watercolor of this iconic landmark, measuring roughly 12"x19".
The whole piece took about 3 hours to complete, and I'm thrilled to share it with you.
Philosophy. Watercolor is a relationship between Water, Pigment and the brush, you are merely the facilitator.
OR
I'm going to give you a little advice. There's a force in the universe that makes things happen. And all you have to do is get in touch with it, stop thinking, let things happen, and be the ball.
-Ty Webb Caddyshack
Paper, paper is the playground for your pigments to play, some are smooth some are rough these qualities will help create the effects you desire or don't desire. Paper on blocks will buckle when totally wet, stretched paper will buckle and taped paper will buckle, this is the nature of watercolor paper. If you don't want buckling try painting on synthetic paper, it has its own challenges. Learn the behaviors of watercolor paper, learn to work with the buckling or do smaller washes that don't cause buckling. Embrace the qualities and natures of your medium rather than cursing them.
Paint, each pigment has its own unique qualities. A pigment from one manufacturer may behave differently than the same pigment from another. Knowing what pigments to use where and when, is your job as the painter. When diluted phthalo blue bears a resemblance to manganese blue, however phthalo blue at full strength can take over a painting while manganese blue at full strength is not much different than diluted. Knowing which colors stain, lift, granulate, or are opaque, then recognizing when and where to use them is like knowing the difference between using a hammer or a screwdriver (Everyone knows you drink a screwdriver). Pigments are like children, they have their own unique qualities, allowing them to be their best will allow your painting to be its best.
Everybody is a genius. But “if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid”. - possibly Albert Einstein
Brushes, brushes are merely tools in your tool kit. I have 50 Cent brushes (cost 50¢ not the rapper 50¢) and I have a brush that costs $300 (it was a gift). I get more joy and usage out of the 50 Cent brushes, not because they are 50 cents but because through them, I am able to better communicate my vision.
In closing, many people are defined by their problems; learn to be defined by your solutions, your world and your paintings will change for the better.
If you wish to communicate with me directly, commission a painting or hire for live demonstration please email me at [e-mail] Please follow me on Instagram @jasontaittinger
Thank You
PRINTS AND MERCHANDISE AVAILABLE @WATERCOLOR.PRINTIFY.ME
I use an assortment of products.
Brushes, I primarily use squirrel hair quills(Amazon), and Hogs hair chip brushes (local craft store).
Paints are from Daniel Smith, Winsor and Newton, QOR, and Schminke.
Papers are all #140 Arches, Fabriano, Lanaquarelle, New York Central (Jerry’s Artarama), Kilimanjaro (Cheap Joe's) and Saunders Waterford. My preference is rough but I also use cold press, I have some #300 and will note when I use it.

[@JT8njr]

“Friends, Artists, and fellow Creative types!”
Thanks for tuning in, and joining me on the channel today. I truly appreciate your support, both viewers and subscribers alike. To build an even stronger community, I thought it'd be great to open things up for a *watercolour Q&A session* right here in the comments!
*Chances are, some of you have questions that haven't popped up yet.* Maybe you're curious about the perfect brush for a specific technique, or perhaps you're facing a specific watercolour challenge and need a helping hand. Whatever it is, don't hesitate to fire away!
*To get the conversation flowing, here are a few starter ideas:*
* "What's your go-to brush for [specific technique]?"
* "Been battling with [watercolour challenge]. Any tips, Bueller, Bueller?"
* "Let's see those travel kits! Show us what you pack for painting on the go."
*Remember, no question is off-limits.* Let's create a supportive space where we can all learn and share our passion for watercolours. So grab your favourite paints, settle in, and let's get chatting! The more you participate, the richer our artistic journey becomes.

[@carolray3637]

Gorgeous - your confidence, and skill, is beautiful to see.

[@JT8njr]

Thank you so much.

[@devili7y585]

Love the quality of your videos !! You deserve so many more subs, keep on going with this quality and you'll get the success you deserve, cheers from France !!! And amazing piece of art you did incredibly well !

[@JT8njr]

Thank you so much, your words are very welcome and encouraging.

[@brendaash8666]

Thank you! Please provide the link for your next video. I couldn't find it in the description

[@JT8njr]

I am editing it right now, should be out shortly. Thank you for tuning in!

[@JT8njr]

ruclips.net/video/Pcx1mRgNmUM/видео.html Here you go, thank you for the reminder.

[@lisapolidora4659]

Beautiful!! Amazing how you do that!

[@JT8njr]

A whole lot of layering and letting go. Prayer can't hurt.