The Kew Book of Painting Orchids in Watercolour

Book excerpt: Paint inspiring, luminous orchids in watercolour using this practical, contemporary guide from respected artist Vivienne Cawson, published in association with Kew Gardens. Vivienne Cawson's luminous painting style and original use of background patterning gives her work a contemporary, beautiful feel all of its own. Published in Association with Kew Gardens as a celebration of their annual Orchid Festival, this stunning book teaches you how to paint a selection of orchids in watercolour. The book contains a thorough techniques section that guides you through Vivienne's decision-making, colour-matching and painting process; capture form with speed and confidence, practise painting different leaves, flowers and roots and learn how to create different textures with paint. The book contains exercises that will hone your skills and encourage your painterly instincts, followed by 3 complete step-by-step projects that feature a range of wild and still-life flowers grown at Kew. The book is interspersed with historical images from the Kew archives, showcasing the rich variety and beauty of this much-loved family of flowers.