What does it take to create watercolour paintings filled with atmosphere, light, and quiet emotion?

In Episode #31 of the Wet on Wet Podcast, Sunil Kalbandi sits down with internationally acclaimed British watercolour artist Matthew Phinn for a thoughtful conversation about finding balance—not only in painting but throughout an artist’s entire creative journey.

Matthew shares how growing up in England, studying Fine Art, living and teaching in Japan, and decades of painting have shaped both his artistic philosophy and his distinctive approach to watercolour. Throughout the conversation, he reflects on the importance of patience, observation, experimentation, and allowing your work to evolve naturally over time.

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Discovering Watercolour Through Japan

One of the defining chapters of Matthew’s artistic journey began in Japan.

Living and teaching there introduced him to a different way of seeing the world—one that values simplicity, observation, craftsmanship, and the beauty of negative space. Matthew explains how Japanese aesthetics transformed his understanding of composition and encouraged him to create paintings that communicate mood rather than simply record detail.

This influence continues to shape his work today, giving his paintings their unmistakable sense of atmosphere and quiet elegance.

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Finding Balance Between Realism and Expression

One of the central themes of this episode is balance.

Matthew explains how his work has gradually evolved from strict realism toward a more expressive approach, combining accurate drawing with loose brushwork, gesture, atmosphere, and the beautiful unpredictability that makes watercolour such a rewarding medium.

Rather than chasing photographic accuracy, he discusses why emotion, light, and storytelling are often more important than perfect detail.

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The Creative Process Behind Every Painting

Matthew also shares his complete creative workflow—from plein air sketching and photography to compositional studies, colour planning, and studio painting.

Rather than rushing into a finished piece, he explains why thoughtful preparation allows him to paint with greater confidence while still embracing the spontaneity and freshness that define successful watercolour.

He also discusses the importance of observation, simplifying complex scenes, choosing compelling subjects, and developing a personal artistic voice through consistent practice.

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Building a Lifelong Career in Art

Throughout the episode, Sunil and Matthew discuss artistic discipline, teaching, exhibiting internationally, balancing family life with a professional art career, and maintaining enthusiasm after many years of painting.

Matthew also shares practical advice for artists looking to improve their work by focusing less on detail and more on atmosphere, water control, composition, and confident brushwork.

Whether you’re an experienced watercolour artist, a beginner, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful landscape painting, this episode is filled with practical insights and timeless advice that will inspire you to enjoy the creative process while continually growing as an artist.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Matthew Phinn’s journey from England to Japan
• Finding balance between realism and expressive painting
• How Japanese art influenced his creative philosophy
• The importance of negative space (Yohaku) in composition
• Planning paintings through sketches and colour studies
• Plein air painting and learning through observation
• Developing patience without losing spontaneity
• Why atmosphere matters more than excessive detail
• Choosing subjects that tell a story
• Building confidence in watercolour techniques
• Drawing fundamentals every painter should master
• Using more water and pigment for stronger paintings
• Maintaining motivation throughout a long artistic career
• Preparing for exhibitions and painting on a large scale
• Why creating art should remain enjoyable

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About Matthew Phinn

Matthew Phinn is an internationally recognised British watercolour artist whose atmospheric landscapes and cityscapes have earned him acclaim around the world. A member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours (RI), the Royal Society of Marine Artists (RSMA), and the Japanese Watercolour Society, Matthew is known for combining strong drawing, expressive brushwork, and a masterful understanding of light and atmosphere.

Having lived and worked extensively in both the UK and Japan, his paintings reflect influences from Western landscape traditions and Japanese aesthetics, creating work that feels both contemporary and timeless.

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Explore Matthew Phinn

Website
https://www.matthewphinn.com

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/matthewphinn/

Royal Institute Profile
https://royalinstituteofpaintersinwatercolours.org/portfolio_item/matthew-phinn-ri/

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About the Host

Sunil Kalbandi

Website
https://kalbandi.com

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/sunilkalbandi/

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About the Wet on Wet Podcast

The Wet on Wet Podcast features conversations with world-class watercolour artists, urban sketchers, illustrators, and creative educators, exploring their artistic journeys, techniques, philosophies, and practical insights.

Each episode is designed to help artists strengthen their skills, build confidence, and develop their own unique creative voice while learning from some of the most respected names in the world of watercolour.