Finding the Image
Today I wanted to use a drawing from my sketchbook, and loosen up and get messy. I started with this old drawing which was meant for a quilt, but never got made. I made a new sketch using watercolor paper and pencil, carbon pencil and a pen to make a smudged and careless (I'm trying!) initial drawing.
Then I applied acrylic paint, mixing my grays and browns from the primaries and using a lot of white.
Orbits
14x10" Mixed Media
I mixed the paint on the surface, and tried to clean up the smudges, while keeping the brushwork loose. Then I worked back into the surface with more ink pen, making marks to emphasize the movement. Finally I added some red colored pencil for some emphasis.
I got a very masculine and powerful image, for me, I think. I showed Dave and he liked it! I am amazed. Perhaps showing him the drawing first helped. Anyway, I know that putting it on the blog changes everything, so I shot some pictures and then started cropping the details.
Detail #1
Detail #2
Detail #3. This one has real possibilities, enlarged.
Playing around with computer generated color.
I like this one. It is really letting the viewer into the process. Carry on!
ReplyDeleteNice to get away from the carnival once and while isn't it.
ReplyDeleteThis would be a starting point for a cool series... of any type of media.
ReplyDeleteOh Melody, I am loving your paintings and THIS one is my favourite so far. My sort of colours I suppose.
ReplyDeleteI really appreciate that you are sharing this journey with us.
It's very cool, I mean cold. The colors you used are very unusual for you. And yet, it is easily YOUR work. It's also very intriguing to look at. It draws the viewer in.
ReplyDeletePOW!! Loved it immediately! It has facinating detail and it's powerful. The greys and browns with a schtickle of red makes it complete. I feel it would make a great huge piece.
ReplyDeleteSherrill
This is fabulous! I love the neutral color palette and the contrast. A very 'cool' piece.
ReplyDeleteIs it for sale? :)
Becky
O Becky, you are a tease. Anyone who knows me knows EVERYTHING is for sale.
ReplyDeleteVery, very interesting. The first thing that popped into my head when I saw the initial sketch and second one was "eyes" so orbits does work for me.
ReplyDeleteYou never cease to amaze me.....
teri
Wow! This one is soooo... artsy! I like the colors...the tiny touch of red. Thanks for showing your sketch and then the progression to a painting. It's both inspiring and educational. And of very fun to read.
ReplyDelete