Waterlily II

Whilst waiting for my other waterlily to dry, I've made a start on the next canvas. This is a small 10 x 10in oil painting. Its going to be very detailed and up close. The flower is semi submerged in the pond, the reflections and water drops are fantastic. I was fortunate to be in the Kew Waterlily House whilst it was being attended to be a gardener who was kitted out for aquatic pursuits. Gardening in a wetsuit?  Now that would give my neighbours something to talk about! The gardener had been busy tidying up the dead leaves, the result was that the waterlilies had been splashed, and this one pulled slightly below the water. 

Waterlily w.i.p

I've worked further into the background today, having a play with some of the colours. I've added alot more green/turquiose into the water. The waterlily pads have beautiful colours limes and magenta. I need to leave the background to dry now, then I will add the suble details and tone to the actual flower.

Delicate hues and tones

I made a small start on the actual flower today. I'm experimenting with the colours to capture the subtle shadows, and glowing highlights where the sunlight is reflected from the white petals of the lily.