Francis Chapin, Visiting Artist Lecture 1956

Francis Chapin gives a lecture at Skowhegan speaking in depth about his watercolor practice. Throughout the lecture, Chapin gives demonstrations on how to mix colors and prepare surfaces for watercolor. Chapin states that the rule with watercolor is not to mix more than two colors together or it will get very opaque. Chapin tells the students they also must have a solid understanding of color theory, in particular how complimentary colors work. Chapin believes that as students, it’s important for them to work with a complete range of colors when exploring watercolor, and not just paint with bright or earthen tones. Chapin then states how he works with one-hundred forty pound cold press papers which he stretches on a piece of board. Chapin states that if students choose to work with rough paper instead, they must wet both sides of it, because the first time they put brush and water on a rough paper, the paper will repel the water. Chapin emphasizes that understanding the mechanics of watercolor painting is fundamental. Chapin then shares another tip regarding conceptual ideas with the students: they must never execute their conceptual ideas too quickly, or the ideas will wither away. Chapin ends his lecture by reminding the students to learn about the practical side of how to build a career as an artist to ensure longevity.