The Royal Watercolour Society possesses one of the most important existing collections of watercolours - the RWS Diploma Collection. In 1860, the members of the RWS Council proposed that, following the example of the Royal Academy, each newly elected member should give a painting to the Society; after 1882 when Diplomas signed by Queen Victoria were given to new members, these pictures became known as Diploma Works. The RWS had also been given works by members elected at an earlier date, and a fine collection began to take shape. It now includes works by many famous names such as David Cox, Peter De Wint, Samuel Palmer, Edward Burne-Jones, Laura Knight, John Singer Sargent and William Russell Flint. To creat this beautifully presented book the members of this prestigious Society have looked through their collection, and each member has chosen a work that personally and particularly inspires them. They have then generated works of their own that reflect that inspiration. Their revealing essays give the reasons for their choice, discuss the methods that their chosen artist appears to have used, and the ways in which those techniques compare with their own. Watercolour Masters: Then and Now showcases the most inspirational paintings, especially chosen or created, as well as useful and revealing insights from leading artists. The book is divided into five sections: composition, colour, tone, draughtsmanship, and creating a narrative, with each artist focusing on the theme that best explains the appeal of their chosen picture. A unique journey into the minds of the masters of watercolour, past and present, Watercolour Masters is sure to delight anyone interested in this medium. -- from dust jacket.