Watercolor Reflections During COVID
COVID transformed our lives in ways we never anticipated, reshaping routines and perspectives. During those quiet days, I found myself with ample time for painting. At the time, I worked primarily with acrylics, but with stores closed and large canvases out of reach, I had to adapt.
Living in Adams Morgan on 18th Street, I was fortunate to explore the city even during lockdown. I’d ride my bike downtown or walk to Rock Creek Park. Washington, DC, was calm and serene—its quiet beauty felt like an invitation to create.
At home, I rediscovered an old set of watercolor supplies. Watercolors, unlike acrylics, were light, portable, and perfect for plein air painting. Carrying them with me, I painted the tranquil corners of DC: Rock Creek’s peaceful trails, the stillness of its streets, and the timeless allure of its landmarks.
The process was transformative. Watercolor introduced me to a new way of expression. Its transparency and fluidity allowed me to go beyond simply depicting a subject—to capture the emotions and atmosphere surrounding it. During the emotional intensity of COVID, my paintings began to reflect not just what I saw but what I felt.
One piece that embodies this shift is my painting of the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum during lockdown. Abandoned yet serene, the museum’s presence conveyed a quiet strength. Through watercolors, I expressed the emotions surrounding the scene—stillness, unity, and the enduring beauty of a city that connects us all.
This period of exploration redefined my artistic journey. It taught me to paint not just objects but the intangible feelings around them. My work now often reflects themes that unite us, reminding viewers of the shared beauty and resilience in the world we live in.
As I continue to explore this medium, I’m grateful for the way watercolor allowed me to find expression and connection during a time of separation.
