A Rainy Morning in Austin and a Watercolor Demo with Austin Palette Club

It was a wet and drizzly start to the day in Austin on February 11th. The morning air was filled with the rhythmic sound of raindrops, creating a peaceful yet moody atmosphere—perfect for a day of painting. Despite the downpour, I was excited to join the talented members of the Austin Palette Club for a watercolor demonstration.

For this demo, I chose to paint a free-flow watercolor piece featuring magnolias. Their delicate petals and graceful forms felt like the ideal subject for a day like this—soft, fluid, and full of movement. To enhance the ethereal quality of the painting, I used the resist technique with masking fluid, allowing the white of the paper to shine through and add depth to the composition. Limiting my palette to just the primary colors added a harmonious vibrancy to the piece, reinforcing the magic that can be achieved with minimal hues.

The rain outside seemed to echo the fluidity of watercolor—unpredictable, dynamic, and full of surprises. It was a joy to demonstrate how water and pigment can interact, much like nature itself, in an organic and beautiful way. The members of the club were wonderfully engaged, and it was inspiring to see their enthusiasm for the medium.

By the time the demo ended, the rain had softened, leaving behind a refreshed and glistening Austin. It was a reminder of how art, like nature, is ever-changing and full of life. I left feeling grateful for the opportunity to share my love for watercolor with such a welcoming and talented group.

Here’s to more creative mornings, rain or shine!