Red Rocks, Fat Hog Bay, Tortola (6x8 Kilimanjaro)
The Indians (6x8 Kilimanjaro)
I'm going through one of those phases familiar to many art bloggers of not feeling committed to or very interested in what or how I'm painting; I'm floundering a bit. Which means, I think, that I need to stretch myself ... but I'm not quite sure how to! (It could also be that I'm about to begin a long and difficult job of work and am feeling some anxiety about how it may take over my life.)
Unfortunately there aren't any classes or groups to join; I'm not in a position to start one either, not now. So I'll just stumble along until I figure something out!
Has anyone else used Kilimanjaro paper? I'm finding it a bit frustrating: I like paper that lets the paint sit on top and flow; this paper seems "soft"--the paint is hard to push around and the paper stays damp for what seems tome a long time.
I began this painting of two young men salvaging a boat at Trellis Bay but felt I was fighting the paper; maybe I'll set it aside and go back in a few days.
7 comments:
Oh, glad I "checked in" here--your thumbnail hadn't changed and I didn't know you'd posted again! These are beautiful colors again, as always, Laura: exactly what I think of when I think of island life. I've not used Kilimanjaro, but I have wondered how it was--I know exactly what you mean, though, when papers perform the way you describe. Sometimes I feel that way with Arches--there seems to be so much sizing in it, I often feel I'm dragging the brush, and it keeps me from feeling I can be as loose as I'd like to learn to be. These show no evidence of your struggle, I'll say that!
I went through that floundering feeling over the summer so stopped painting. Then decided to start art classes and that changed my attitude. Maybe just taking a break will get you enthused again. Your paintings are, as always, nice and loose with both lost and found edges - just as watercolors should be. Have you ever tried hot pressed paper? Arches is easier to use than Fabriano (the only two I have tried) which is more absorbent.
Jean
September is a long way away, but I'm sure the Charles Reid workshop will give you a huge boost (I'm envious!). I can't get into painting if I'm anxious about other things either - I hope the big job isn't as hard as you anticipate. As Suzanne said, your struggle doesn't show in these lovely paintings, but I know what you mean about paper that sucks up the paint - it's a battle!
Wish I had some powerful words of comfort and encouragement, Laura...However, all that said, if your ability to work on paper that you find difficult and still come up with such amazing watercolors is any indication, I know you will not only get through the difficult time ahead, but do it quite successfully!
Hi Laura,
If this is fighting the paper, I say
keep fighting! It looks just beautiful. Skip Lawrence who works in watercolour and acrylics uses Kilimanjaro. I think you've done a beautiful job so far.
Take care,
Barbara
You have some nice work. I have used Kilimanjaro for the whiteness. Fabrino 140lb cp the paint floats on top,
These show no evidence of your struggle, I'll say that!
Work from home India
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