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Writer's pictureCathy Carey

Making a painting from Cancun

In July Brian and I took a trip to Cancun. It was our first time there and so we were anxious to explore and see all we could. On a day trip to see cenotes (natural sink holes filled with fresh water) and caves south of town I found my perfect location for the first painting. My paintings always start with sketches, pencil and/or watercolor. Here I want to show the progression from start to finish.

These are blind contour sketches I did while there, I combined them to make the image for the painting.


Cave by Cathy Carey ©2014

Cave by Cathy Carey ©2014



cave entrance by Cathy Carey ©2014

cave entrance by Cathy Carey ©2014


Research is always part of the creative process, these are a few of the materials I used.

Book on Codex Nuttall, photos from trip, watercolor sketches from trip, blind contour drawings and finished sketches


Research materials for a painting of Cancun

Research materials for a painting of Cancun


Watercolors done on location. Here I am, palette, brushes and sketchbook.


Working on a watercolor at the underground river Cenote

Working on a watercolor at the underground river Cenote



Watercolor sketch for Underground River

Watercolor sketch for Underground River



Underground river with butterflies

Underground river with butterflies


Work in Progress of Underground River, first layer.


Stage 1

Stage one on Underground River


Second layer.


Stage 2 on Underground River

Stage 2 on Underground River


Third layer.


Stage 3 on Underground River

Stage 3 on Underground River


The finished product.


Final Underground River ©2014 Cathy Carey

Final Underground River ©2014 Cathy Carey


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