An interview with watercolor artist Inga Buividavice

Thanks Inga aka @inga.buive for taking part in our favourite illustrators’ interviews series!

Let’s start the questions!

How long have you been drawing?

I am a graphic designer but I haven’t been drawing that much till the last year. I was constantly thinking that I will start drawing one day but it seemed that this day will never come. But then two years ago I’ve picked up a brush while on maternity leave and was determined to learn watercolours.

What’s your process?

My process is chaotic, I don’t sketch most of the time and I paint fast. I can start three paintings at a time, leave them to dry and finish them off in three weeks. Sometimes when I want to do a more structured composition I do a light pencil sketch, then do one or two layers of paints and add details with a fine brush or white pen.

Digital vs traditional?

Both. In my case noting is finished if not processed digitally.

How long does it take to create it?

I paint fast and I’d rather do lots of paintings than keep editing one. It can take anything from 10 minutes to an hour. However, I can do lots of sessions before it’s finished and they can be weeks apart.

Is it a hobby or your career?

A hobby that pays for itself.

Why do you draw?

It’s a part of who I am.

What inspires you?

My inspiration comes from watercolour itself. I’m mesmerised by how paints bleed into the paper. I start almost with abstract brushstrokes and then try to push it to the familiar shape such as florals or planets. That’s why my flowers are very simplistic most of the time. Shapes, colours and contrast are most important and together they make a certain mood that is the main purpose to me. I love geometry and patterns, nearly every painting will have that no matter how loose or chaotic it looks from a first glance.