Plein air painting (“in the open air”) is an ideal distraction from my technology-focused daily routines and is it’s own type of meditation. And with watercolor, I find it’s a conversation with, or a negotiation between, my intent and the water’s desire.

With watercolor, I must give up a little control. I might coax, I might suggest… but I cannot demand. Demanding watercolors to do as you command is a fools errand.

Instead, watercolors teach humility, reward patience, and sometimes surprise with the unexpected beauty of natural processes.