Aquarelle

/ˌækwəˈrɛl/ noun

Definition

A painting technique using transparent watercolor washes to create delicate, luminous effects on paper.

Etymology

From French 'aquarelle,' derived from Italian 'acquerello,' ultimately from Latin 'aqua' (water). The term entered English in the 18th century as the technique became fashionable in Europe.

Kelly Says

Aquarelle painters embrace the accident—unlike oil painting where you can paint over mistakes, watercolor forces artists to commit, which is why the greatest aquarelles have this spontaneous, living quality.

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