Watercolor is a painting technique that uses water-soluble pigments to create art. The colors are typically applied to paper, allowing for a range of effects from transparent washes to vibrant, opaque layers. Artists often use special brushes and palettes to mix and apply the paint, taking advantage of the fluid nature of the medium. This technique is known for its ability to produce soft, delicate images, making it popular for landscapes, portraits, and abstract works. Watercolor paintings can be framed or displayed as is, and they often require a careful balance of water and pigment to achieve the desired results.