Voices of Experience – Svetlin Sofroniev

Voices of Experience

Svetlin Sofroniev

Watercolor     ©Svetlin Sofroniev

” . . . doors inherently hold significant symbolism.

They serve as a bridge between the artist and the viewer,

representing obstacles, borders, but also the inception

of a journey, self-discovery…

All of this compels the viewer to approach

the artwork, to empathize, and to actively

engage in the unfolding narrative.”

               – Svetlin Sofroniev

   Bulargian artist, Svetlin Sofroniev, invites the viewer into his beautifully painted watercolors through doorways, landscapes, waterscapes and cityscapes—each executed with detail and yet never losing the spontaneity that gives watercolor its unique character. He studied at the University of Veliko Tarnovo “St. Kiril and Methodii”, earning an MA in Pegagogy of Arts and went on the do post-graduate work at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”. His work has been juried into international exhibitions claiming multiple top awards. He is a signature member of the National Watercolor Society and the Laguna Plein Air Painters Association. Sofroniev told us about his passion for waterolor and included a step-by-step example of his work.

   “My first teacher was a watercolor master, and that was the beginning of my journey with this medium. The most important lesson I’ve learned is not to be afraid of the water—after all, watercolor is a water-based medium. I learned to work with a lot of pigment and water, embracing the fluidity and spontaneity that make watercolor so unique. Yes, I work with other mediums as well, but I always strive to capture a watercolor-like impression and feeling in them, too.

   I’ve traveled and painted in many countries, but Italy is my greatest love. There, you encounter art everywhere, and I think Italians are so fortunate to grow up surrounded by such beauty and history.

Blue Sea Dots      Watercolor

Blue in Monopoly     Watercolor

   My creative process begins with an idea or inspiration, often drawn from nature or familiar places. I don’t have a specific formula for choosing subjects—most of the time, I see something, and an inner feeling tells me I need to paint it. I just know when a scene will make a good watercolor painting. Whenever possible, I make quick sketches and take notes on-site to capture the essence of my subject. I also take many photos to refine my work in the studio, always leaving room for improvisation.

   Watercolor is a medium that demands flexibility and openness to unexpected results, making each painting a unique experience. I always teach my students the importance of practicing value studies. That way, when they have the opportunity to paint outdoors, they are already prepared and have a clear idea of their sketch, thanks to their prior practice.

Oxide Living     Watercolor

Rusty Cage     Watercolor

   I love working with old, vintage and handmade papers because they are usually of exceptional quality and produce beautifully unpredictable results. I also enjoy painting on Whatman watercolor paper, although it is out of production already, but you can still find some sheets on the Internet.

   As for pigments, I usually have a wide range of blue-green contrast colors, but I also love to experiment with different tones and color harmonies. Sometimes, I prefer working with a very limited palette, using only two or three colors to create a more focused and cohesive piece.

   Sofroniev included this Step-by-Step Watercolor Demonstration:

Plein Air Sketches and Studies

Initial Drawing

Beginning Color Block-In

Adding Detail

Final Watercolor     © Svetlin Sofroniev

   Are you currently teaching workshops? Do you have any advice for beginning artists?

   I teach watercolor master classes. For beginners, my advice is simple: don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. Watercolor requires patience and practice, but it also offers incredible freedom and creativity. Find your unique voice by exploring different techniques and themes, and always strive to express your personal experiences and emotions through your art. Or, more simply put: paint, paint, paint!

   Just for fun—if you could have a long conversation over dinner with an artist from the past, who would you choose, and why?

   I would invite at least 12 apostles for a Secret Dinner! But if I had to choose only one artist, it would be impossible. I would love to sit with the Dutch Masters and learn everything I could about their techniques.

Chasing Shadows     Watercolor

To see more of Svetlin Sofroniev’s paintings

go to: Svetlin Sofroniev.

All images © Svetlin Sofroniev