Canadian artist Sandrine Pelissier creates rich mixed-media portraits bursting with life. In the August issue of Watercolor Artist she shares in-depth details about her process. Here's what she had to say about how she chooses which surface to use for a particular subject:

“When choosing a subject, I ask myself what kind of paper and technique would help me best convey the effect I’m looking for,” says Pelissier. “Do I want the subtle, controlled effect afforded by layering on absorbent, Arches 300-lb. cold-pressed watercolor paper, or the brighter colors and texture that painting directly on Yupo paper offers? (Yupo is a non-absorbent, synthetic paper that allows paint to stay on the surface and dry by evaporation, making more or less predictable patterns in the process.) For results that fall somewhere in-between, I opt for watercolor board; and for paintings with a lot of texture, I work on wood panels or canvas.”

For more painting tips from Sandrine Pelissier, check out her feature in the August 2009 issue of Watercolor Artist.