How to Paint the Cattleya Orchid, Miniature Watercolor Painting

"How to Paint the Cattleya Orchid, Miniature Watercolor Painting," by Ross Barbera.
Visit http://www.rossbarbera.com to learn more about my paintings.

In this video demonstration I provide detailed, step-by-step instructions on how to paint a miniature watercolor painting that captures the unique beauty of this colorful orchid. The watercolor painting that I create in the video falls within the category of "Artist Trading Cards," measuring exactly 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches wide. Visit http://www.watercolorjewelry.com to learn more about my watercolor paintings and jewelry creations.

For the painting's subject matter I selected a close-up photograph of a Cattleya Orchid that I took while visiting the Planting Fields Arboretum which is located on Long Island, NY. This video demonstration begins with a brief discussion on how I use my original hand drawing to create variations on a theme, and how I also incorporate these variations into "Watercolor Paper Pendants." As you watch me create this tiny watercolor painting, I provide detailed instructions on every step of the process, clearly explaining classic techniques of "transparent watercolor painting." My instructions are easy to follow, very detailed, and the video is packed with useful watercolor information and painting tips.

Making watercolor miniatures is a wonderful way to improve one's watercolor painting skills. They facilitate the practice of watercolor painting techniques without making a major commitment in time and money. Not only do I often begin the day by doing a few small watercolor paintings, but I often start my workshops by having students create one or two small watercolor paintings. I find this warms students up and gets their artistic energies flowing. And often during long painting sessions, I give students a break from their more extended pieces by having them do a few quick watercolor sketches.