Peter Robinson tests out a set of three retractable field brushes from Pro Arte.
Top features:
- The brushes come in a fine leather case
- An ideal size to carry for plein air painting
- The metal case for each brush gives excellent protection
- The brushes hold paint well and are wonderfully responsive when used
- The set of three gives scope for a variety of watercolour techniques
Using the brushes
On receiving the brushes, I set about producing a few swatches attempting a variety of watercolour techniques.
The flat brush
Colour swatch using the flat
As many of my paintings include graded washes, particularly of clear blue skies, I decided to test the flat brush first.
The brush held the paint well and produced the result I was hoping for.
The brush is smaller (size 8) than I would normally use when completing a painting, a minimum of 30x40 cm, however, I was pleasantly surprised how well I was able to produce a wash over a larger area resulting in a smooth finish.
Having lived by the sea for much of the past 40 years, I occasionally paint seascapes.
When including waves, I use brisk brush strokes on rough paper, intentionally leaving white streaks to show the waves.
The Pro Atre retractable flat brush responded well when using this technique.
The filbert brush
Most of my watercolour paintings include some curved lines and blended areas, providing variety and soft effect.
I also use a filbert brush to paint small marks.
I found this filbert brush was particularly responsive when using these techniques.
The Round brush
I find that I use a rounded brush more than any other. Its versatility allows for a variety of techniques and is particularly useful when painting foliage.
The brush in this set has a fine point, making the painting of small marks particularly easy. It also holds paint well when painting larger areas.
Putting the brushes to the test
All three brushes were used in the finished painting, Home.
The flat brush was used for the sky and for a first wash of the areas of brick.
I then painted each brick using the rounded brush.
The point of this brush was also useful for painting the window frames.
Home, watercolour on Arches rough watercolour paper (300gm), (30x40cm)
When painting the garden, I first used the flat brush for a green wash on the lawned area.
I then used the filbert brush to paint the round garden table, much of the foliage, and leaves on the tree on the left.
The rounded brush came into its own when I added small touches of colour for the flowers in the pots on the steps. I also used the rounded brush to paint the tree trunk and garden chairs.
Conclusion
York Minster from Gillygate, a further test of the Pro Arte brushes
For many artists brushes become like friends. We get to know their strengths and weaknesses. They become familiar as we get to know how they behave in different circumstances. I can imagine how this set of brushes could become a good friend!
As an artist who almost always paints in a studio, using these brushes has made me consider spending more time plein air painting. This is where the design and practical leather holder is best used.
Time will tell whether the responsiveness and springiness of the brushes lasts. If it does, they are very good value for money.
About Peter Robinson
I’ve been watercolour painting for over 40 years.
Since 2018 I’ve been working from a dedicated studio at my home on the Yorkshire coast.
See more of Peter's work in the gallery by