Gary Lippincott’s Studio Tour Reveals His Watercolour Secrets
Gary Lippincott, famed for his detailed watercolor illustrations, invites readers into his Massachusetts studio. The tour reveals his creative process, favorite supplies, and the whimsical atmosphere that fuels his art.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Gary Lippincott, a celebrated watercolor painter whose work has appeared on book covers, in galleries, and in private collections worldwide, opens the doors to his home studio for a rare behind‑the‑scenes look. The artist’s studio sits above a garage in Petersham, Massachusetts, tucked away from the road and surrounded by woods that border conservation land. The setting provides a quiet, natural backdrop that inspires Lippincott’s delicate, folk‑tale style.
Morning Rituals and the Studio Layout
Each day begins with a climb up the wooden stairs that lead from the garage to the studio. Lippincott jokes about the “enchanting‑looking” vines that creep up the stairs, a reminder of the natural world that permeates his work. Once inside, the large windows flood the room with natural light, a crucial element for a watercolorist who relies on the interplay of light and color.
The studio’s layout is both functional and whimsical. Shelves line the walls, holding reference books, fantasy novels, small figurines, and personal photographs. A tiny wood stove keeps the space warm during winter months, while a bright orange fishing tackle box—his favorite storage solution—houses Windsor & Newton professional‑grade watercolor tubes. The artist’s choice of brand reflects his commitment to high‑quality pigments that capture the subtlety of his subjects.
Techniques and Tools
Lippincott employs a mix of wet‑on‑wet and wet‑on‑dry techniques, selecting the method that best suits the texture he wishes to portray. Whether he is rendering the softness of a cloud or the roughness of bark, his approach is deliberate and layered. The studio contains a range of tools: an 80s pencil sharpener, a white mask from a costume party, a vintage telephone attached to a broken fax machine, and a battered brown tackle box that holds most of his paint tubes.
In addition to painting, Lippincott occasionally works on sculpting and carving puppets. He has a camera set up to capture time‑lapse footage of his painting process, a feature he has been asked to expand upon for social media audiences. While he is hesitant about prolonged filming, his daughter encourages him to share his craft online.
Creative Atmosphere and Personal Touches
Music is a constant companion in the studio. Lippincott listens to movie soundtracks such as “The Last of the Mohicans” and “Cloud Atlas,” as well as ambient and orchestral pieces by David Lanz and Patrick O’Hearn. He also enjoys the whimsical voice of Tori Amos and the earthy tones of Fiona Apple. These sounds help him maintain focus and spark imagination.
Other personal items add character to the space. A yellow pencil sharpener, a white mask, a vintage phone, and a collection of lanyards from sci‑fi and fantasy conventions line the shelves. A large blue armchair offers a place to rest his eyes, while a Yamaha piano—now relocated to the living room—reminds him of his musical past. A glass of red wine often accompanies his late‑night sessions, providing a calming counterpoint to the creative energy.
Signature Works and Future Projects
Lippincott’s most ambitious piece, titled “Ruckus,” measures 30” by 40” and hangs prominently on the studio wall. He considers it his masterwork, a testament to his skill and dedication. Other notable pieces include a large oil painting of a unicorn and fawn running through the woods, and a puppet sculpture that showcases his versatility across mediums.
Looking ahead, Lippincott plans to continue refining his watercolor technique, experimenting with new subjects, and sharing more behind‑the‑scenes content with his growing online audience. His studio remains a sanctuary where tradition meets innovation, and where each brushstroke tells a story.
Explore More of Gary Lippincott’s Art
To view a broader selection of Lippincott’s work, visit his official website. For artists looking to emulate his style, consider exploring Windsor & Newton watercolor supplies, which provide the rich pigments that define his luminous landscapes.
Key facts
- Lippincott’s studio is located above a garage in Petersham, MA, surrounded by woods.
- He uses Windsor & Newton paints stored in a bright orange fishing tackle box.
- The artist blends wet‑on‑wet and wet‑on‑dry techniques to capture texture.
- Music and personal items create a whimsical, inspiring atmosphere.
- His signature piece “Ruckus” is a 30”x40” watercolor considered his masterwork.
Why it matters
Gary Lippincott’s studio tour offers insight into the creative process of a master watercolorist, inspiring both aspiring artists and fans of folk‑tale art.
Frequently asked questions
What brand of watercolor does Gary Lippincott use?
He prefers Windsor & Newton professional‑grade watercolor paints.
Where can I see more of his artwork?
His official website showcases a full gallery of his pieces.
Does he offer tutorials or workshops?
While he has shared time‑lapse videos, he has not announced formal workshops yet.
Sources
- [1] creativebloq.com — originally reported as “Gary A. Lippincott takes us on a tour of his inspiring home art studio”
