Finding Light and Depth in Simplicity

Sometimes less is more — and in watercolor, that simplicity can hide the most rewarding challenges. This composition caught my attention immediately. It’s a scene typical of old southern Spanish homes and those found in Gibraltar’s historic quarters: bright white façades, terracotta potted plants, and narrow passageways leading into shaded inner patios.

My main goal was to capture the brilliance of midday light bouncing off the walls, and to create a convincing sense of depth in the interior space. To do that, I used a strong value contrast and a very limited color palette, focusing on broken blue-violet shadows balanced with warm oranges. The simplicity of the subject allowed me to concentrate fully on light and atmosphere.

Materials and Technical Details

Paper: Canson Heritage, 300g fine-grain paper.
Watercolor: Schmincke Horadam watercolors.
Technique: Mainly «wet on dry» and «dry on dry»  
Format/Size: Portrait; 30 x 46 cm.
Completed: November 2022.

Final Notes / Artist’s Reflection

This painting reminded me of how often we overlook the beauty in everyday spaces. Working with such a reduced palette felt like a kind of discipline — one that sharpened my attention to light, tone and balance. It’s a quiet piece, but one I’m especially fond of. This is definitely one of the works I’m most proud of.

Further Exploration

To check out the rest of my watercolor collection, click on this link. https://juananelo.wordpress.com/porfolio/

Artists exhibited in Gibraltar. https://www.culture.gi/art-galleries/

What do you think of this piece? Feel free to leave a comment or share it with someone who appreciates light and Mediterranean charm in watercolor.