At our recent meeting, we were treated to an inspiring demonstration by Penelope Gilbert-Ng. Titled “Light & Layers”, her session showcased the magic of building pastel works on a watercolour underpainting using Lux Archival paper. With glowing reflections and soft afternoon light cast across clouds and rooftop, Penelope focused not on photorealism, but on evoking atmosphere and mood.

She shared invaluable insights from her decades of experience:

•    How cameras distort tonal values and how artists can correct for that

•    Techniques for softening cloud edges

•    Using composition to support the narrative of a painting

•    Emphasising that “tone makes it work, colour gets the accolades”

•    Extending colours beyond the paper so that many will frame the picture

•    Ensuring variation in tone and colour in all corners of the canvas

•    Leaving space for the viewer to participate: the painting should work from a distance.

Penelope’s teaching reminded us that a masterful painting is not just about technical execution but about creating space for emotion, imagination, and connection.

A truly enriching afternoon!