Abstract English Gardens

Clouded Foliage, watercolor, copyright Nina Leung, 2014

One of the most satisfying things to do in art-making is automatic drawing/painting. I did these paintings in the spirit of automatism, only I did have a subject in mind. I thought of messy English gardens before and during painting. This is how I like to paint and this is why I love to work with watercolor. Watercolor paints force speed and the flow of the water can sometimes be unexpected which makes it more fun. Before I started painting, I thought of the tradition of watercolor painting in England. The watercolor paint boxes created in the 19th Century made it possible for painters to go out and paint their landscapes outside. There's something quite romantic about that.

Geometric Country, watercolor, copyright Nina Leung, 2014

Interpretations of Louise Bourgeois's Les Fleurs

Louise's Flowers, ink on watercolor paper, copyright Nina Leung, 2013

 This week was fun! Automatic drawing/ painting is so exciting and can be such a challenge. I had no plan, I just grabbed the material and let go. What a wonderful way to learn to quickly solve problems on the fly. Challenges arise and, with ink, there's no room for correction making it particularly exciting. Painting like this should be a requirement for everyone. It's a great way to relieve stress and concentrate the mind on one thing. Maybe I'll start doing this every day! Thank you, Louise Bourgeois!

Bouquet of Flowers, ink, sanguine powder, and watercolor on watercolor paper, copyright Nina Leung, 2013

Les Fleurs, Again, Slick Sticks by Crayola, copyright Nina Leung, 2013

This last one is done with Slick Sticks, these wonderful, super smooth crayons made by Crayola. I LOVE them! It feels like you're drawing with lipstick, so smooth and thick and brilliant.