In the studio I start sketching and composing with a blue Col-erase pencil on 140lb or 300lb hot press watercolor paper, depending on the size of the piece.

After I am satisfied with the subject and composition, I begin detailing the work, using a magnifying glass to clarify otherwise hidden patterns in the photograph. I start the drawing from one side top to bottom, keeping the rest of the paper covered so as not to smear my original layout sketch. Depending on the size and complexity of the work, the drawing alone can take up to 450 hours.

Because of the complexity of my work, (and because my subject matter is usually found in cold damp places!) I work from photographs that I have taken throughout Marin County and the Sierras. I look for interesting movements of water, interactions of water with rock, light, and vegetation. I am always out with my camera after a good winter rainstorm.

When the drawing is complete, I begin with light watercolor washes over the blue pencil. Col-erase blue is water-soluble so I compensate when I mix my colors. I build up value by layering one wash over another, a sort of glazing technique carried over from my oil painting days.

WILL NOBLE   PROCESS