Mill Cottages 2 by Ann Cook

That's better, I think - the darker grasses help to push the focal point back to where you want it to be; and you've not over-detailed them, which was wise - you don't want the viewer tripping over them on the way into the painting. The perspective is a bit skewed, but then it's a very old building - so that really doesn't matter much; if anything, it emphasizes the age and the undoubted fact that bits were built at different times; keep an eye on that, though, he said - entering into teacher mode. Only other thing - always bear in mind where the light is coming from, and the shadows it will cast; they won't all be of the same strength but they will follow a general pattern: you have a very strong dark shadow against the farther chimney, but significantly paler ones against, eg, the gable end of the building in front. That could be just how it was - all sorts of things influence the density of shadows, particularly passing clouds - but it's just a point to consider. Arnold Lowrey is your man for shadows - look out for his watercolour demos on Youtube or the Painting and Drawing Channel.

This is definitely better, Ann. "Master" Robert (if I may call him like that, no offense I hope) is right about the shadows but overall, I like it very much. Well done!

Yes, you're right, Mia - "maestro" Robert is dead right as usual - thanks Robert! I've fixed all the shadows, but won't post again - don't want to bore folk!

I agree with Robert .but. just the left s ,,personaly.I would ,remove the green bank,if we are not carefull one can get water looking like it runs uphill.. ..and I would keep the foreground simple (so as not to distract the eye) .I would use a patch of plain.dark cloud shadow ..as per JFWs I would not let the eyes look at that grass ,it is distracting. I would hate it if I have over stepped the line and been critical ///,.I think your paintings are fine and you paint so well

Thank you, Alan, for taking the time to comment and advise. I think I will draw the line under this one and try to nterpret all advice in my next effort.

Lovely painting Ann. Well done.

Thanks Paul! Comment much appreciated.

Agree with everyone, the added dark grasses do sharpen the focal point. Well done, Ann!

Thanks, Seok, for your comments and for taking the trouble to look at both postings.