Janine Gwaltney's "Waterfalls in Watercolor"

Waterfalls are one of the most challenging subjects in transparent watercolor, and I have been challenged by them for 41 years. Since I never use white paint, all the light coming from the painting is a reflection of the complex surface of the watercolor paper. A waterfall emerges by painting the area where the waterfall isn’t.

This display of waterfall paintings includes studies of two stunning waterfalls on the Western Slope: Box Canyon Falls and Rifle Falls. My goal was to show different ways of interpreting the same subject. In other words, I just couldn’t say enough about these beautiful places.

I love to be outside and a large amount of my work is painted from life. “Rifle Falls 1 & 2” were painted on location. “Somewhere in Colorado” and “Rifle Falls 3 & 6” were painted from my imagination and memories. The rest of the show was inspired by sketches and photographs taken at the scene. I am grateful to the Wright Opera House and the OCAA for this opportunity to show in this special venue.

I generally paint landscapes and florals and you can check me out on Facebook @Janine Gwaltney Watercolors. You can reach me at 970 964 7333 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.