Watercolor Society of AlabamaPromoting and supporting watermedia since 1939
Watercolor Society of Alabama began in 1939 with an exciting vision to promote, create and inspire painters in the art of watercolor media. We embrace that vision by holding juried watercolor competitions each year: WSA Annual National Exhibition , Statewide Alabama Members Showcase and Online Showcase.
We offer workshops taught by nationally and internationally known artists. Vibrant Newsletters, published quarterly, keep members informed and connected.
Growing up in rural Ohio, as a kid Thomas Schaller dreamed of little else except to one day grow up, live in the city, and become a professional artist. And after a few twists and turns, years later, his dreams have come true. As a very young person, Thomas had many interests – art and architecture being the primary ones. But he says he “made the mistake of assuming that I had to choose one path or the other.” He lived in New York City for many years working as a concept designer and architectural artist. “While I loved this work, there was always something missing. I painted the dreams and visions of others, but I still longed to paint my own.” So, in 2010, he made the decision to redesign his life and learn how to become the artist he was meant to be.
Lorraine Watry is an award-winning watercolor artist and Signature member of the National Watercolor Society and American Women Artists. Lorraine’s watercolor paintings of wildlife, landscapes, glass, and metal, depict quiet moments full of light and color. Lorraine enjoys passing on her knowledge of watercolor and teaches workshops and classes and gives demonstrations. “ I was thrilled to learn that my TV Art Documentary, produced by Put Some Colour in Your Life (Australian Art TV show) will be heading to the moon with SpaceX and NASA in 2023 in an art time capsule!”
Lorraine Watry
Watercolors hold a fascination for me – the transparency of the paint allows a glow from the white paper, there is always something new to learn, or new to deal with because the water and color often have minds of their own. I work from my own reference photos and choose to paint detailed scenes or those with movement (like a bird or waterfall). I compose in my camera, and I am always thinking of my next painting when looking for shots. Each piece is different, so I don’t have a set process of working. However, I often begin with the lightest colors and the background. Besides the subject matter, color, texture, and pattern are some of the most important aspects of my watercolors. I am a Colorado native, and I am influenced by our beautiful blue skies and strong lights and shadows.
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