Zen, as a system of thought, was a natural development of Buddhism from India and Taoism from China.  In general, Buddhism is a way of living rightly and Taoism is a way of living naturally (which in Taoist thought is considered THE WAY to live rightly).  To my thinking, Zen has become a simplified system that gets to the essence of the things that matter.  Essence is the overarching word that encompasses what this series is about.

Getting to the essence of what creates a good painting, one must have the basics well in hand.  What are the basics of a good watercolor?  The basics must include the elements of painting and design used with a clear mind as well as skill.

Besides understanding the basics, we must know the materials; therefore, we use a minimum of supplies.  This makes it possible to get thoroughly familiar with them leaving us free to create.   Also, the watercolorist must understand the nature of how the water and paint interact.  The techniques used in this series are designed to help us realize that the water becomes as much a part of the painting as the paint.

Yes! Watercolor can be a difficult medium but one of its greatest beauties is its spontaneity.  It is my hope the lessons presented here will help students improve their skills and understanding in order for them to fully express their own nature.

Jill Fonner