Initially, Prof Woon Lam told me to work on a few small pieces so that they will be easier for me to manage since I am still kind of struggling with the techniques. However after much thought, I felt that I should challenge myself to do an approximately A1 size one instead. I have also decided to use watercolour paper.

Reference Images for the final:

Combined photoshopped image and rough composition:

Since the A1 size is rather spacy, I found 2 paintings that can fill up the space more evenly. I could have just enlarged my previous composition but I don’t really have the confidence to work on large components yet. I found that small elements were easier for me.

Process: 

This was my pencil outline sketch of the composition. I adopted this method after Prof Woon Lam recommended that perhaps I can try to do a light pencil sketch of the objects first before painting with chinese ink so that I would not miss out details I originally wanted and the shape would not be too far off.

 

This is the final piece. I have attempted to create texture through many layers (especially through the dry brush technique), first starting off with the very light and faded tone first and subsequently making it darker gradually. I also realised that it took some time for each layer to dry on the watercolour paper. (Relatively slower than on rice paper, but the good thing is I can wash off some errors on this while I cannot do the same on rice paper) However, I have difficulties creating the smooth transition feel between each object (something I am actually conscious about).

After presenting my piece in class, Prof Woon Lam did comment on the poor transition between the objects, something I need to improve on. However, he also mentioned that there were various textures created on the mountains, something I felt a little happy about (at least I have some improvements from the experiments).

Reflections:

It was intriguing and challenging at the same time, trying out a different medium, something I am not familiar with for the final piece. Personally I feel that an individual learn more while stepping out of their comfort zone and attempt something new. It was through the various experimentations and meeting “dead ends” that I roughly pick up the right techniques (still have a lot a lot more to learn) and the appropriate methods to approach the medium. Although the final piece did not turn out to be as well as expected, the learning was what made the process enjoyable and fruitful. I am extremely thankful for having a friendly and patient tutor like Prof Woon Lam who will not hesitate to guide you whenever needed. I always look forward to having FD lessons throughout the semester and I feel that each lesson was kind of filled with a little element of surprise and that I will take away something new with every lesson. It has been rather enriching semester!