Artists_amp_amp_Illustrators__July_2016_

74 Artists & Illustrators

For many watercolour artists, keeping light in their work is

essential to the overall success of the painting. One way to

do this is to keep the white of the paper free from

unwanted paint. With careful, delicate brushwork the white

might be left, but for many painters a looser, more direct

style of painting is preferred. At times like this, masks and

masking might be the answer. The use of masks offers

both protection and the opportunity for a looser execution.

Any substance that protects an area from paint and is

removable is known as a ‘mask’. Resists, such as wax or oil

pastel, serve a similar purpose but cannot be removed

from the final painting and for that reason, should always

be carefully considered before being used.

MASKING FLUID

Masking fluid is commonly used by the watercolour artist.

Masking fluid

can be applied

to the area to be

protected with a

brush or a dip pen

for the finer lines

ROB DUDLEY TALKS US THROUGH THE DELICATE ART

OF APPLYING MASKING FLUID, AND HOW THIS TRICKY

TECHNIQUE CAN BE YOUR PAINTING’S SAVIOUR

MASKS & MASKING

Rob Dudley,

Springtime:

Lukesland Farm,

watercolour,

25x25cm

74 Rob Dudley.indd 74 11/05/2016 10:37