I won't say I get it right all the time. Watercolor is a true challenge. Watercolorists must paint quickly and decisively, planning the entire design in their heads before they ever commit paint to the grainy paper. Many of Washington's watercolors have been sold, and it's not hard to see why. Many offer nostalgic looks at peaceful places sand dunes, aged barns, porch rockers and shade trees.
Landscapes emerge in rich hues.
Washington also draws, and there are portraits of Dr. Martin Luther King, Muhammad Ali, Frederick Douglass and himself. His self-portrait a graying, mustachioed figure is one he has no intention of selling. Washington, who admires the artist Winslow Homer, also teaches watercolor. Watercolor student Beth Groff of Washington Township praises Washington. Groff, who takes lessons with friend Helen Foster, says she feels blessed to be able to study with Washington.