To MaryLou Andrews, painting with watercolors is like a beautiful dance. She might plan the steps, but sometimes the paint simply takes over and leads.
Charlie Lindauer describes working with the luminous, fluid colors as “juggling jellyfish.” An artist never has total command of the medium, he explains, which is why he sees God’s hand at work every time he paints.
“I used to be quite controlling and, at times, a perfectionist,” Lindauer says. “Watercolors will humble those who have those attributes. Once you allow mistakes to happen and relax in the process, you will enjoy it regardless of how the painting comes out.”
Andrews and Lindauer, both Virginia Beach residents, serve as co-presidents of the Chesapeake Bay Watercolorists, a group formed in 1982 to support, encourage and educate beginning to advanced painters ages 16 and older.
With about 60 members throughout Hampton Roads, CBW organizes monthly meetings, workshops, critiques, exhibits and demonstrations by local or visiting artists. Its fall juried art show is currently underway.
“Personal relationships with other artists and the exchange of ideas are extremely important for the nurturing of art and artists,” says Nancy Topping Bazin, a Norfolk-based painter and CBW member since 2002. “The exhibits provide another possibility for people to be surrounded by art and to learn about what good art is, and how it nourishes one’s spirit.”
Dating back to ancient times, watercolor paints are made of transparent or opaque pigments suspended in a water-based solution. As the brilliant shades soak into paper fibers, they can move, blend and dry in unpredictable ways.
People tend to be afraid of working with watercolors, because covering mistakes with acrylics is easier, according to artists. However, painters can learn techniques to fix problems and restore light to “muddy” areas, says Pamela Barcita of Chesapeake, a CBW member for two years. Barcita also teaches at the Tidewater Community College Visual Arts Center in Portsmouth.
Still, artists must accept that watercolors do sometimes paint themselves, she adds: “Depending on the chemical makeup of the paints, the effects can be varied and surprising. You cannot and should not overwork them. You have to trust that they will react the way they are supposed to. The serendipity is joyful.”
The creative process for CBW members is generally relaxing and fulfilling, and can be energizing; Lindauer describes entering a meditative zone where his heart and breathing rates decrease. Yet it can be exhausting, too.
“Painting is a series of decisions,” Andrews says. “Where is my emphasis, and how to maintain it? How to move the color throughout the painting? Where do darks best serve my intent? And so many more. It is active and critical thinking.”
“Painting can be an isolating experience, even though very pleasant personally,” Barcita adds. “Having the inspiration and support of a group really helps, and the community benefits from being able to see the beautiful work that our members create. It helps people understand how important art can be in their lives.”
CBW members have varied backgrounds and styles. Andrews, retired from a 44-year career as a schoolteacher, now instructs homeschooled kids. Lindauer, who has two degrees in geography, only began painting in 2013 as a therapeutic activity during cancer treatments and today has a company to sell his works. Barcita, meanwhile, has been a watercolorist for 50 years.
Bazin taught English and women’s studies courses at Old Dominion University for 22 years, where in 1978, she became director of the state’s first women’s studies program. And while watercolorists often strive to produce realistic images, she specializes in whimsical birds.
“I love color, pattern and line, and I can change a lot on a bird yet it will still look like a bird,” she says. “I love being free to create my own realities.”
While many CBW artists have award-winning works in galleries and private collections across the United States, the group fully embraces novices as well.
“Do not be afraid to share your art with others,” Lindauer advises. “We all started out making mistakes. We will accept, encourage and applaud you for your effort of becoming a better artist.”
Alison Johnson, ajohnsondp@yahoo.com
Fall show and membership info
Chesapeake Bay Watercolorists is showcasing 134 works by award-winning painters through Jan. 8 at Dominion Tower, 999 Waterside Drive on the 18th floor, in Norfolk. For more information on CBW, visit the group’s Facebook page or contact Barbara Mitchell at 757-630-3001. The organization meets the first Sunday of most months from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at the Artists Gallery, 532 Virginia Beach Blvd. Annual membership dues are $30.
