Steve Baird Artist

My paintings are representations of places and experiences. They are not photographic, although I work from photographs and sketches.
Working from memory and images to complete a painting is a process of simplifying reality. What to include is essential. During the process of doing preliminary sketches, I modify, eliminate, or invent elements that where not there originally.
The application of watercolor to paper occurs after a pencil drawing on 300-lb cold pressed paper. I use Winsor & Newton watercolor and Sennelier pigments.
I make adjustments as I move forward depending on what the watercolor does on the paper. The accidental nature of watercolor painting includes random brush strokes and pouring or dripping the paint on the surface. This creates further opportunities for changes depending on the color combinations that occur. The central driving thought for me is that the colors need to be harmonious and the look should be fresh.
Over the years I’ve found myself being drawn to places that are by water. Water can unify a composition, reflect the passage of time, and tell a story.