A Path in the Woods - Painting Back lighting

Painting Watercolor Trees Without Sponging

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A Path in the Woods - Painting Trees Without Sponging

The main points of this landscape are working

  • back (light)
  • to the middle section (medium)
  • to the front section (dark).

  • You want to leave some holes for the birds to fly through, too. You'll see this in the extra page showing each step, as well as in the video.

The demo shows these trees painted using salt or spattering for texture, a dabbing technique, and an introduction to the hit or miss method of placing random water on your paper and painting into it.

Your painting doesn't have to look exactly like mine - that's the beauty of watercolor. Each painting will be unique. Feel free to use sponging, add branches, add extra tree trunks or even a figure walking on the path.

Backlighting works especially well for watercolor, as each layer goes on top of the ones before, building up color and texture for a nice sense of realism.


Your Instructor


Deb Watson
Deb Watson

Hi, I'm Deb Watson.

My story is simple. I loved creating art from childhood, but was discouraged from pursuing art by my parents. So, I became a nurse, but kept painting.

I knew nothing about art, but taught myself over time and became a very successful artist, with hundreds of awards. Although my art and how to paint techniques are well known (in over a dozen books and online), I'm just a down to earth person.

I've always enjoyed teaching others how to paint with watercolor - sharing the joy!

Join me in your own personal journey into painting. My online lessons and zoom classes will teach you how to see and paint like an artist. No matter what your favorite subject is, you'll find it here - or email me your suggestions and I'll include a class in the future.

Happy Painting.



Course Curriculum


  Path Introduction and Student Work
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Path Outline Page, Instructions, etc.
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days after you enroll
  Path video demonstration
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days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
We would never want you to be unhappy! If you are unsatisfied with your purchase, contact us in the first 30 days and we will give you a full refund.

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