Writing my Second Book: Behind the Scenes 1.

How to Paint Colour and Light in Watercolour

Launched at the Mall Galleries in 2010 

The decision to share each stage of writing my second book.

When I started writing my first book I was in the throws of a move and renovating a cottage. While writing my second book I thought it  may be a great idea to share its creative process and what goes on behind the scenes to show how much is involved in publishing the finished article. I also am aware this could be valuable information to anyone who is also considering writing a book of their own.

Finding a Publisher

Every author needs a publisher. One that has experience and excels as established in the literary world. I am so fortunate to be an author for Search Press as they are an incredible company. I am overwhelmed with the support and guidance I have recieved from the very first day I met them. So to record the process of pulling this next book together will gradually introduce you to a team who are involved and helping make this exciting  new project one that will be filled with magic.

My Second Book: The Birth of an Idea

The idea for this new book came long before my first book " How to Paint Colour and Light" was even  considered. However at a final meeting before my first book was about to go to print the suggestion of my second book with pages full of demonstrations,techniques and fabulous colour was born. And the minute it was excitement filled the air. Sometimes you just know something is going to be fantastic and we all know this is what we are about to create. Martin,Katie,Roz and I were aware we were onto something very special.

The Wait

Now we had the seed of an idea there was much to do in deciding how to go forward. The thinking process is as important as the actual writing and painting. If not more important as the ideas needed time to formulate. There was a long gap in the creative process as further suggestions were discussed and also my first book had yet to be launched which it was at the Mall galleries in London during the SWA, Society for Women Artists Annual Exhibition.

The First Meeting

Last Autumn saw my first meeting where each chapter is allocated title wise and the flow of the book is already in place. All I can say at this stage is that if I feel this excited about writing it I can't imagine how anyone who loves watercolour will feel when they actually read it. It is different,yes. But then there are already so many books available discussing already well known techniques. My workshops and demonstrations often  see those attending making a comment when they leave.They tell me I am a "Breath of Fresh Air" and that's what I want this next book to feel like.One that cannot be put down and one that is seriously highly recommended to all watercolorists.

So at what stage am I now?

It will take a full twelve months before we can give a date to when this book will be available because the journey into creating it has really just started. From the birth of an idea, to the first planning meeting. I am now working in my studio on techniques and ideas which I won't share online until the book is launched to add to the surprises it holds.

The First Photography Shoot

But yesterday a really exciting stage took place.The discussion for the very first photography shoot. This will be in March at the professional photographers who shot all the images in my first book. they are fantastic. I have now some very serious painting to do and some very quiet studio time to enjoy.

I am so over the moon in how this book is developing that I feel as though I am floating with excitement at times. Its going to be very hard keeping my feet on the ground this year. And I am not sure I am going to try!

So if my paintings seem happy,light with a sense of freedom over the next twelve months put that feeling down to sheer happiness.

I am over the moon!

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"How to Paint Colour and Light in Watercolour" by Jean Haines is available from Amazon.com and other stockists.