We worked on a peony-like flower. Such a flower develops from a spherical bud, and we shoot for a mostly open blossom with some part of its center only slightly open.
We analyze its structure, which may be considered concentric layers/rings of petals, with their sizes progressively bigger in the outer rings. The petals are roundish, like a soup spoon. At various orientation, they will take on different shapes. Another metaphor for the flower is a "cup & saucer" combination. The opened petals form the saucer; the semi-open inner petals form the cup. We use a combined two-strokes for each petal shape. Take color mainly at the brush tip, but apply the full brush for the strokes. As the belly of the brush has little color, the stroke should results in a smooth variation and gradation of color. Also the flower needs to be contrasted by the leaves, which is an important part of the composition. Even though they have a definite shape and pattern, when viewed together as a group, the leaves are basically irregular. We do each again by two stroke combinations. Their positioning, grouping and distribution must serve to set off the flower.
In terms of color, red is used for the flower. Leaves can be done in ink tones, and then subsequently topped with yellow to yield an "ink-green" effect. Gradation and shapes are key.
Once the overall brush strokes are done. We can use additonal lines using a small brush to accentruate the petals. Select some key petals; use heavy red to touch up the top/tip of the petal. This will separate out the said petal from the rest. Additional veins can also be added on the larger petals consistent with the lay of the petal. (Poeny petals can have faint veins that are visible.)
The leaves similarly should be veined. The veins helps to suggest the leaf's orientation.
The above touch-up should be done when the brushwork is still damp (not immediately, when the stroke can be too wet). This way the added lines can meld with the target stroke. Control water in the brush, by blotting moisture away from its base/belly, so that the color in the brush tip is undisturbed.
Finally after the brushwork dries, we can add yellow to the flower's center.
A final light grey series of leaves can harmonize and add dimension to the picture.
In-class Demo:
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