I did two remote sessions with Alex in 2019, one with a bedroom scene and the other a chair. The inks here are Derwent Graphite which produces a wonderful set of tints. They are painted on hand made Japanese paper which is wonderful for the intense colours and layering of colours. The drawings were scanned and corrected in LightRoom.
This series of watercolors featuring Alex captures the model in a variety of poses, blending bold color choices and expressive brushwork. The artist’s ability to evoke mood and form through minimalistic detail shines throughout these works, making the series a compelling exploration of both subject and medium.
Piece 1: Reclining Elegance
In the first piece, Alex is depicted reclining with an almost dreamlike quality. The earthy greens and browns meld seamlessly with the figure, creating a sense of harmony between Alex and the surrounding space. The pose exudes relaxation and introspection, with the loose lines and soft washes of color emphasizing the fluidity of the form. The vibrant red tones in Alex’s hair provide a striking focal point, adding vibrancy to the overall subdued palette.
Piece 2: Languid Recline
The second piece captures Alex in a slightly more upright, yet still relaxed pose. The warm ochres and muted greens create a delicate balance, with the figure blending into the background while still commanding attention. The subtle expression on Alex’s face conveys a quiet confidence, while the minimal detail in the hands and torso highlights the artist’s focus on capturing mood over precision. The use of negative space gives this piece a sense of lightness and air.
Piece 3: Poised Expression
In this work, Alex’s gaze becomes the focal point, with the rich green and gold hues creating an almost ethereal effect. The expressive linework around the shoulders and torso contrasts beautifully with the soft, textured background, drawing attention to the figure’s poised yet introspective demeanor. This piece feels intimate, inviting the viewer to connect with Alex on a personal level. The artist’s choice to leave some areas undefined adds to the emotional depth, allowing the viewer to fill in the blanks with their own interpretation.
Piece 4: Reaching Out
The model, Alex, is captured in a dynamic, semi-reclining pose with one arm raised, the other loosely suggested, and a gaze that is both direct and contemplative. This posture emphasizes both strength and vulnerability, reflecting the recurring themes of intimacy and self-awareness present throughout Sam’s work.
The raised arm elongates Alex’s form, creating a strong diagonal line that leads the viewer’s eye across the canvas. The positioning suggests motion, as if Alex is caught mid-gesture, adding energy and immediacy to the piece. The watercolor technique, with its fluid transitions and slight imperfections, gives the work an organic and emotional quality. This loose application of paint contrasts with the precise ink outlines, highlighting the interplay between structure and freedom—a hallmark of Sam’s artistic approach.
Overall Impression
This watercolor series is a testament to the artist’s ability to balance abstraction and representation. Each piece captures a different facet of Alex’s personality, from the relaxed elegance of the reclining poses to the quiet intensity of the closer studies. The interplay of earthy tones and vibrant accents, particularly in the hair, creates a cohesive yet varied palette across the series.
The artist’s decision to prioritize mood and movement over rigid detail gives the collection a timeless quality, making it not just a study of the model Alex, but an exploration of human presence and the emotional resonance of watercolor as a medium. This series lingers in the mind, a beautiful tribute to both subject and art form.
Standout
The standout piece in Alex’s series is Piece 3: Poised Expression.
This work captures an intimate connection with Alex through the powerful focal point of their gaze, framed by rich green and gold hues that evoke an ethereal quality. The expressive linework complements the softness of the watercolor washes, creating a dynamic interplay between definition and abstraction. The texture and tonal variations in the background add depth, while the choice to leave certain areas undefined invites emotional interpretation.
The poised yet introspective demeanor of Alex in this piece is striking, offering a sense of vulnerability and quiet confidence that resonates deeply with the viewer. It feels both personal and universal, making it not only the most emotionally evocative piece in the series but also a testament to the artist’s skill in creating atmosphere and connection.