"Medea the Sorceress" by Charlotte Anne Thomson

This is so astounding I can't think of words to tell you why i like it so much. what's gouache...? Can I ask you a question? lately, i've been seeing a few really prime artists with an exceptional talent with watercolours (and yes, i do think that you are in this category) and I really want to know how you do it. I know this is a really silly question, i understand art can't be explained, but where were you trained to paint like this? Did you go to school for this? where did you pick up on all these little tips you use here and there in your paintings? This painting is amazing and i've looked at it for a long time, but i still can't seem to pick up on the little things that improve the big picture. if this is a skill that you've worked on, how long does it take and how much time do you put into it? I'd really like to improve my work and move away from pencil crayons and digital colouring, and any advice you can throw out to me would be really apreciated. (honestly, this isn't one of those elfwood butt kissing tactics, i'd just like a bit of advice from a proffessional source, if it isn't any trouble)

Charlotte Anne Thomson replies: "Wow thanks! not sure how best to reply to this, could take some time ) but i dont mind answering any questions, always happy to help!Ok 1st question: Gouache is like a thick version of watercolours, its what graphic designers used to use before computers were invented, it has strong flat pigment and can be used in blocks of colour but can also be watered down and used exactly like watercolour. Youll find it in any good art shop.How do I do it? ummm...practice basically, lots and lots of practice, trial and error, i paint almost everyday, sometimes i spend all day doing things, i read art books, i look at other artists artwork, I go to art college and have been in art education full time for three years, Ive always painted,art is my passion and eventually will be my career if all goes well. I basically live and breathe it and thats all i can offer as advice! lolA good way to ease your way out of colouring crayons is watercolour crayons, or 'aquarelle' as theyre called to make them sound more posh. theyre just crayons that when you wet them go all runny like watercolours and you can get pretty cool effects with them! Also, paper, sounds silly but get some good paper, youll be amazed how it will change your artwork. If youre drawing figures dont be afraid to work from photos or trace outlines and tkae life drawing classes if you can, this has helped me loads!But yeah things come in time, if youre dedicated and practice and work really hard things will come to you, and dont get stuck doing one thing like say manga style, experiment with different things and look to different artists and styles of art and also design and anything around you! If i think of what my work was like three years ago it was terrible compared to how it is now, really really bad, its amazing how much you can learn and change so dont ever give up! ) and feel free to email me if you want to ask any other questions! My friend has a yahoo group for fantasy artists where people post work and help eachother improve, dont know if you'd be interested but its at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Fantasy_Artists_Guild/take care and good luck with everything!xCharlotte "

Wowzaz! I love the disighn around the eyez that makes her more sourceress

Charlotte Anne Thomson replies: ") thankyou! glad you like her x charlotte"

Wow! What a beautiful picture!I really love your art. Keep up the good work!

Charlotte Anne Thomson replies: "thankyou! x"

Wow! Everything about this pic is exceptional. I love how the swirly pattern is repeated in the different elements. Very cool! You did a great job giving beautiful Medea a touch of otherworldly-ness. Her eyes are absolutely haunting! Also, your use of the cool grays with the other warmer tones gives this pic such lovely balance.

I absolutely love your style! I think this is my favorite of all your works on here. I think you portrayed Medea perfectly. Fantastic painting job as well, you have real talent and a really unique style.

I like the design around the eyes...Its pretty..^^

I agree that the eyes make this piece. They're so inhuman. Beautifully rendered.

Wow. Remind me to stay on her good side. Wonderful work!

Gorgeous! I love her tatoos!

Wow! I love this! The eyes are soo cool! And her dress! And her jewlery! and..well eveything! You are awsomE!