Less Is More
Four reasons beginners and professionals alike should use a limited palette to get dazzling paintings every time.
By Ratindra Das

Taking Control
Learn how Henry Dixon faced his fear of watercolor and found the techniques to make the medium work for any subject.
By Caroline Purtell

The Play Is the Thing
Sure, painting is a challenge, but it should be fun, too. Find out how British artist Trevor Waugh maintains a sense of playfulness and creates spontaneous scenes in watercolor.
By Maggie Price

Face to Face
Three master portrait painters share their secrets for success, from mixing believable skin tones to bringing photo references to life.
By Michelle Taute

What Lies Beneath
Sweden-based artist Debora House builds up glazes of acrylic paint, even embedding surprising objects in her paintings, to create abstracted images with layers of meaning.
By Sandra Carpenter

SPECIAL REPORT: STUDIO EXCLUSIVE
A Room of One's Own
Set up your studio with helpful tips from four top artists.
Compiled by Loraine Crouch

Making a Splash
Big Easy inspiration, Monet's floating studio, art shows and more.
Edited by Katherine Mesch

Studio Staples
Butch Krieger tests D'UVA Erasable Watercolors.

Watercolor Essentials
Learn a new brushstroke or refine your technique with this step-by-step guide to applying paint.
By Carlton Plummer

Practical Creativity
More than just a way to pay the bills, commissions can be creative.
By Cathy Johnson

Brush Basics
Paint a perfect portrait in eight simple steps.
By Mark Willenbrink

Watercolor Q&A
Expert advice on painting shadows, choosing brushes and more.
By Carl Dalio

Creative Challenge #16
George James demonstrates the techniques you'll need to give your paintings a lift. Plus, your responses to Creative Challenge #14.
By Betsy Dillard Stroud

Meet the Masters
Renowned art critic John Ruskin painted wonderful watercolors, proving he not only talked the talk, but also walked the walk.
By Walter Garver