"My approach to watercolor has always been non-traditional. Although traditional washes are an internal part of the painting process, I depend more on the layering of color through the technique of glazing and drybrush (color applied with a brush squeezed almost dry of moisture.) Moving between dry and wet on the same piece paper achieves variety of complimentary thick and thin surfaces, This allows for the luminous quality of watercolor with added depth of color and texture.

"Light plays an essential role on my paintings. It is as if the subtle or dramatic interplay of light and shadow become the subject more than the objects themselves. Light reveals the character, color and texture of landscapes and buildings. The alternation of lighted and shadowed planes produces a powerful repeated pattern, acting as and integral element of design.

AFTERNOON'S DANCE

"Subject matter has always been of paramount importance to me, especially with it's tendency to come unexpectedly, Quiet, patient observation will almost always reveal the life of a subject. Recently, the focus of my initial impression will change through the course of a painting. The paintings' titles offer clues to the experiences behind an inspiration,

"As one of the artists that most admire, Andrew Wyeth, once said; 'Catching the sense of a subject, without turning it into a picture, is the most important thing to me.'"

Recent works can also be seen at Jud Hartmann Gallery (just down the hill on Main St., Blue Hill) and at Northlight Gallery, Kennebunkport. Prints of Randy's paintings are available through his website: www.randyeckardpaintings.com