Saturday, July 30, 2016

Painting Live Models

Painting using live models scares me, or should I say intimidates me. When I was in art school I signed up for a summer portrait painting class where each class we would paint from a live model. Trying to get a portrait started and work within 25 minute increments was very challenging (not to mention my professor looking over my shoulder). I would find myself so worried about the time limit and other's watching that it was hard to get much accomplished. I would then finish in the comforts of my own home using a photograph. 

Photographs became my comfort by providing me with a still subject with no time limits. It was like the perfect relationship for me, but in time I became dis-satisfied with my paintings...they lacked something and fell a little flat. I decided that in order to grow I must step out of this box that became my safe haven, and take risk no matter how difficult it would be. 

I began by becoming my own model. I could paint myself without added pressure of doing a just job for the model. If it didn't turn out well...then it was just me. Time...I didn't have to worry about giving my model a rest (I could paint as long as I desired). I liked being my own model, but I was ready for more. 

This week, I solicited my daughter to sit for me. She set up her tablet, and caught up on some T.V. shows via Amazon (Yay for technology!). I'm so thankful she was willing to take time out of her day to spend a total of 4 hours sitting for me. The painting is not a complete likeness, but I'm pleased with it. Speed and likeness will come in time with practice (which I'm looking forward to painting another model). 

Never be afraid to try new things because that is what helps us grow!

Monday, July 25, 2016

Travel Sketchbook

I love sketch journals, but haven't consistently kept one.  Pinterest has so many examples of beautiful sketch journals from other artist, and I would say to myself that I will one day start one, but one day seemed to never come until... now.

I began meeting a friend occasionally to do some on site sketching, and I found that I was enjoying it more than I expected.  I went and bought an inexpensive watercolor set (just until I get a feel for the medium) so that I can first, experiment with the medium since I have never been formally trained in watercolor, and secondly, so I can add some color to my sketches.  I'm starting to get a feel for the medium, but I have a long way to go.

My husband came up with an idea to do a Bahama Cruise (which caught me by surprise since he really has a hard time staying away from the mountains and we go every chance we get), but he has always wanted to try a cruise and he felt the time was right.  I don't know what I was most excited about...the chance to see new places or the opportunity to do a travel journal of the Bahamas.

Below are some of the sketches from my journal:









Sketch Journals are now a part of me and I will continue to journal.  :)