Watercolor Paintings by George Elbert Burr
Art Lesson Time: Witnessing Watercolor Magic with George Elbert Burr
Hey there, art enthusiasts! Today I'm introducing you to a captivating artist who'll spice up your artistic palette – George Elbert Burr. Although famous for his etchings of desert subjects, it's his watercolors that hooked me in. He created many of his watercolor masterpieces plein air, giving them a fresh and spontaneous feel. So, let's dive into some of my top picks, accompanied by some thoughts and observations.
Venice
Check out this enchanting mix of blues, purples, and white. Notice how the ocean's horizontal theme contrasts with the sky and clouds' solid and shapely theme, and observe how the sky gently merges into the ocean, creating a subtle color link between the two.
From Above Pont-y-Pant
Marvel at the way Burr brilliantly employs space in this masterpiece, using distinct foreground, middle ground, and background, and the atmospheric perspective. Watch as your eyes are drawn into the foreground, through the valley, and around to the background mountains, taking an S-like journey.
The Rhone From the Path to Salvari (Switzerland)
Here's another striking piece, with the vibrant oranges and yellows on the left against the deep blues on the right, creating a beautiful contrast due to orange and blue being complementary colors (opposite each other on the color wheel).
Shore at Pwllheli, N. Wales
He truly nailed capturing the ocean's movement in this one, with the highlights and shadows below the whitewash doing the heavy lifting, conveying essential information and realism. The bottom shore provides a temperature and value contrast.
At Pwllheli, N. Wales
If you fancy a bit more drama and color, check out this variation! Look at those stunning yellows and reds in the sky!
Criccieth, N. Wales
This piece demonstrates a quieter side of Burr's work, showcasing his versatility and control.
Alban Mountains From via Tuscolana, Rome
In this piece, you can see either pen or pencil drawing layered over watercolor. It's an extraordinary combination, with the drawing adding intricate, sharp detail, while the watercolor delivers clean colors and transparent washes.
The Wye Near Ross
Check out how Burr painted the grass in the foreground with just a few color washes and a hint of texture. Simple, yet effective! He took a more complex approach with the water, weaving blue, purple, and green strokes together to suggest water's gesture.
Venice
Just a quick reminder that a small, busy scene can make a big impact!
Nevin, North Wales
Look at how Burr used dark accents to highlight and define the rocks along the shore. Can't help but wonder if he painted with flat middle colors first and then added those dark accents with a finer brush.
Here are a few more pieces to feast your eyes on:
So, what do you think about these breathtaking watercolors by George Elbert Burr? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Happy painting!
Dan ScottDraw Paint Academy
- Art enthusiasts might find an intriguing connection between their lifestyle and fashion-and-beauty choices, asthey admire the fresh and spontaneous landscape paintings of George Elbert Burr.
- As you savor a cup of coffee and plan your food-and-drink menus for the week, consider taking a break to explore Burr's stunning watercolors, such as 'The Wye Near Ross.'
- Transform your home-and-garden into a sanctuary of art by framing some of Burr's captivating landscape paintings, like 'Venice' or 'From Above Pont-y-Pant.'
- If you're seeking inspiration for your next traveling destination, take a virtual trip to the Alban Mountains or Criccieth, as depicted in Burr's masterful paintings.
- As you cuddle with your pets, immerse yourself in Burr's serene landscape painting, 'Shore at Pwllheli, N. Wales,' to reconnect with nature and find peace.
