By explaining how water reacts on canvas, and then using examples of classic art and hands-on exercises, this fully-illustrated text can help anyone-from beginner to advanced artist-become a more skilled and creative watercolorist. Unlike oils or acrylic paints, watercolors are never fully controllable, and the artist must allow for unexpected movement and blending. In the hands of a truly gifted watercolorist, this untamed power can create moving and memorable works of art. You'll master those skills, beginning with terminology and equipment, and then going into the basics of color classification, the use of shadows, the color triangle, and forming a palette. Next, create preliminary sketches, experiment with both Wet-on-Wet and Dry Surface techniques, and learn the secrets of achieving fluidity and controlling the halo effect. Soon, you'll understand how and why Renoir and Monet chose and used their palettes, and be on your way to becoming a more accomplished watercolorist.