What Makes Watercolours a Popular Medium for Artists?

There’s something timeless about watercolours. Whether it's the way colours bleed into one another or the soft, unpredictable edges they create, watercolours continue to hold a special place in the hearts of artists—from curious beginners to seasoned professionals. But what makes this medium so universally loved?

Let’s take a closer look at why watercolours are a favourite for many and what makes them stand out in the world of art.

A Medium That Invites Freedom

Watercolours offer a level of freedom that’s hard to find with other mediums. With just a basic set of paints, a brush, and paper, one can begin creating. There’s no need for complex materials or elaborate setups. For many artists, this simplicity removes barriers and lets the focus remain on the process rather than the tools.

Artists like Winslow Homer and John Singer Sargent often used watercolours while travelling, because the medium was so easy to carry and use outdoors. That tradition continues even today with urban sketchers and hobbyists who prefer working with a small portable set.

The Beauty of Imperfection

One of the biggest charms of watercolour is its unpredictability. The way the pigment flows across the surface, reacts with water, and sometimes forms textures of its own, which can be both humbling and inspiring. You’re not entirely in control, and that’s part of the joy.

Unlike acrylics or oils, watercolour doesn’t offer a lot of room to cover up mistakes. But in that limitation lies its beauty. Many artists say they’ve learned patience and acceptance through this medium—qualities that slowly creep into other parts of their life too.

Transparent, Gentle, and Light

Watercolour is known for its delicate, transparent washes that allow layers to shine through. This makes it ideal for painting natural elements—sunsets, foliage, florals, skin tones, or water bodies. The softness of the colours can evoke emotions without overwhelming the viewer.

Have you ever noticed how watercolours are often used for greeting cards, wedding invites, or storybook illustrations? It’s because the medium lends itself so well to dreamy, emotional, and often nostalgic visuals.

Ideal for Experimentation

Though watercolours have a reputation for being “difficult,” many artists love them for the endless experimentation they allow. You can try wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, splattering, salt techniques, or even resist painting with wax. No two results are the same and that’s the thrill.

If you’re just starting out, don’t be afraid to play. Try mixing unexpected colours, letting water run wild across the page, or painting with a sponge instead of a brush. You’ll discover things about both the medium and your own instincts as an artist.

Affordable and Accessible

Unlike oils or acrylics, you don’t need a large collection of brushes, solvents, or canvases to work with watercolours. A small half-pan set or a few tubes, a round brush, and a sketchbook are enough to get going.

That makes it especially attractive for beginners, students, and hobbyists who might not want to invest in heavy materials just yet. And while professional-quality materials do exist, the entry-level investment is still relatively low.

Popular Watercolour Brands in India

India has a rich heritage of art and craftsmanship, and that tradition carries into some of the country’s most trusted watercolour brands:

• Camlin Kokuyo: A household name for decades that took birth in Bombay, Camlin’s watercolours are known for their reliability, affordability, and vibrant pigments, perfect for students and hobbyists alike.

• DOMS: Quickly rising in popularity, DOMS offers beginner-friendly art supplies, including watercolours that are smooth and easy to blend, making them ideal for casual creatives.

• POLO: Known for their pocket-friendly pricing, POLO watercolours are a go-to for school art projects and early learners looking to explore with colour.

• Brustro: A favourite among serious hobbyists and semi-professionals, Brustro offers artist-grade watercolours with rich pigmentation and good transparency, often rivalling international brands.

These Indian brands provide accessible options for artists at every stage, supporting creativity without breaking the bank. Do check out the above links and I am sure, you will be thrilled to see the history behind your favourite watercolour brand.

Global Brands That Artists Trust

For those looking to invest in professional-grade watercolours, here are a few global favourites:

• Winsor & Newton: A classic British brand known for consistency and high pigment load. Their Cotman series is ideal for intermediate artists, while the Professional range is widely used by experts.

• Daniel Smith (USA): Loved for its extensive range and unique pigments like “Moonglow” and “Serpentine Genuine,” Daniel Smith is a favourite for experimental artists.

• Schmincke Horadam (Germany): Known for their smoothness and re-wettability, Schmincke watercolours are a luxurious choice for detailed work.

• Sennelier (France): Honey-based and creamy, these paints are known for their luminous quality and are often used by illustrators and botanical artists.

Each brand offers something slightly different in terms of colour vibrancy, texture, and flow. It’s a good idea to test a few individual pans or tubes before committing to an entire set.

A Medium That Keeps You Grounded

There’s something meditative about working with watercolours. You slow down, observe how the water moves, wait for it to dry before layering again. It teaches patience, presence, and trust, not just in the medium but in yourself, and I personally feel more liberated with watercolours every time I paint.

It’s no wonder so many artists, professional or hobbyist return to watercolours after trying other media. It becomes less about perfection and more about feeling. By the way monsoons have arrived, a perfect weather to indulge in watercolours. Now don't ask me why. So let me know what you're painting.

Happy painting, people...

Image Source: Pramod Sharma