(7x10)The task in class Monday was to paint landscapes with a sense of depth, space. A frustrating exercise because while I've been told all the ways to accomplish that--warm in front, cool in back; color in front, muted color in back; details in front, none in back--it's still a hit-or-miss proposition for me. Which could be discouraging--I know what to do but can't do it?--or in a way encouraging--there's an element of producing a pleasing painting that doesn't have to do with what you know?
We did small studies first. These are mine, of Cape Henlopen, DE, and the Red Rocks in the BVI.
(4x6)I'm still futzing with my 7x10 of the Red Rocks: getting the "right" color for the middle-ground green hill has me painting and repainting--first it's too warm, then too blue; now it's too green. I know I won't be able to stand it much longer--nor will the paper. (I'll post the result, whatever it may be!)
(4x6)Next Monday we'll be doing a little plein air painting--new frustrations!--courtesy of my classmate Elaine, who has invited us to paint at her house.
10 comments:
Don't forget plein air adds excitement as well as frustration to the painting process. The need to get it on the paper before everything changes and the less controllable environment often leads to sparkling and spontaneous effects. I know -- I've seen your stuff.
I don't see a miss amongst the lot of these paintings, Laura. I love each and every one and would love to paint like this. I just keep plotzing along. I think they are beautiful.
Viewing your work is like a meditation for me. Thanks for the experience.
I know the frustration of trying to create depth. It sounds easy but is not. We know all the rules but when we try to apply them, it doesn't always work. I came across a wonderful quote in a watercolor magazine recently. "It's easy to paint when you don't know how and very difficult when you do." So true. Having said that, I really like these pieces. They show you usual freshness of style.
Jean
I really like the violet (light purple) that you added. It really draws the eye and it looks great against the dark blue. I have to echo the "I wish I could paint like this" sentiment. I look at your blog enough, and I certainly hope I can glean something from your style.
Awesome, Laura! Your color palette is always the best, and you use it to such advantage here in these beachy landscapes. Have at it--you're doing great! Can't wait to see what else you come up with.
I'd say you achieved a feeling of depth in each one, but especially the top one. Have fun with your plein air painting. I tend to become overwhelmed trying to paint outside, but you always seem to create something fresh and exciting.
I think it's ENcouraging... when the results are like yours Laura - give a nod to the 'right' way and then keep on doing what you do so beautifully. Enjoy the plein air - look forward to hearing and seeing how it went!
These are nicely done.
This is why I've never tackled plein air...so many extra things to worry about and conquer. You're doing well but I can feel your frustration...just know that it's another tool in your belt and you'll be very capable of this soon. In fact, I like your paintings now, without any more changes or worry about them. Painting the essence of a scene, knowing what to leave out, what to put in, what to focus on...give yourself somet time to learn and adjust :)
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