Summer Shallows by Vicky Lilla. All Rights Reserved. A successful watercolor painting expresses organic fluid movement and a natural energy created by glowing layers of transparent paint. I strive to achieve this purpose as well as an individual edge on realism in my landscape, nature, still life and portrait paintings. Composition, color and texture are important aspects of my paintings. Most of my work is concept driven yet based on a literal scene or event that intrigues me.

My approach is simple and direct without gimmicks. Most paintings begin with an on site sketch or photo session. I use paint in both a loose and controlled manner to capture atmosphere, light and reflection while allowing my creativity to evolve the painting. Beginning with a hypothetical idea in mind I allow my imagination to follow the direction the paint has taken refining and adding detail as the painting progresses. I do not use the same techniques every time; the subject matter often determines my approach.