Welcome to the Watercolour Art of Dennis Curran Website

WELCOME
A native Nova Scotian, Dennis uses light and shadow to capture the exquisite beauty of the land and sea. Rich, vivid colours set the mood for the work and provide a strong visual impact. Dennis’ objective is always to express nature, not through imitation, but rather through observation and imagination.

ARTIST STATEMENT
Some of Dennis’ paintings are done on location; others are painted in the studio. While on location, speed and spontaneity are the key as ever-changing light patterns require quick movements and free use of washes producing a dynamic watercolour painting. While working in the studio, reference photos are used to create an initial pencil sketch. A detailed perspective drawing on watercolour paper begins the process. Working from background to foreground, Dennis begins laying in washes of colour. For land and sea scapes, the sky sets the tone for the entire painting. A complete sky allows Dennis to harmonize all elements in the piece creating a sense of atmosphere. Further glazes and washes build values through the midtones to the darkest darks. Finally, Dennis addresses the details and texture, with scraping, spatter and drybrush technique.

My painting philosophy is that the interplay of light and dark is the most important fundamental to produce a vibrant painting. More important than colour is the quality of light.The light and dark, warmth and coolness, sun and shadow define the character of the image. Shadow cannot exist without light nor light without shadow.