Over the course of her career, board certified anesthesiologist Dr. Christa Lynn Gray has conducted research involving gene expression and genetic engineering for some of the most renowned universities and biotechnology firms in the country. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Christa Lynn Gray has an interest in painting.

Artists can employ different watercolor painting techniques to achieve a spectrum of textures and effects. Some of the most basic methods include the following:

Dry Brush – This technique can be used to add fine details to landscape painting or create the impression of background scenery. This effect is created by absorbing most of the water and pigments from the brush before applying it to paper.

Wet-in-Wet – This common technique, using a wet brush on wet paper, results in a feathery, multi-tonal effect. Wet-in-wet is ideal for creating blended backgrounds or creating images with softened edges.

Lifting – This technique involves removing excess paint to create white space. A wet, clean brush or a paper towel are effective for removing pigment from wet paintings. Once dry, watercolors can be altered used a white pencil eraser.