LOVE the texture of rough watercolor paper
I am trying to keep some of my paintings looser and softer looking. I decided not to totally detail the wicker and each separate leaf. I am not sure if it is the right choice and I really, really want to get back in there and DETAIL. It was very difficult for me to stop and leave it looking more relaxed. Same goes for the softer background. I chose rough surface watercolor paper to give it texture and am working on 18X24" this time. I am a detail loving artist and my favorite paintings are my super detailed oil still lifes on masonite (each and every little speck and line shows). It is hard to break old routines, but that is why I love watercolor- the loose quality that is possible.
I couldn't help myself from putting in the darker areas since they really seemed necessary to help suggest the light areas without going into too much detail and over-painting. Most of the darker shadow areas are just more layers of Payne's Gray. I used some Burnt Umber and Cad Red mixes in the dirt and in the leafy areas. The leaves are mixes of Sap Green, Olive Green, and Burnt Umber. I also used Raw Sienna on the leaves so it wasn't just shades of green. The cushion is Burnt Sienna, Sap Green, and a wash of Burnt Umber. Some of the mum petals are put back in with white gouache to give them a stronger look.
Thanks for looking!
Sheryl
Gorgeous! Really gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteLove rough paper for the textural and blending qualities - and your painting - perfect. Sometimes less is more - and how more is this! Jolly well done ! xx
It's lovely, came out so well. I like the texture too, and it has a nice loose quality with detail where you needed it! Congrats!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Dora and Pat! I am going to continue with the rough paper for at least one more, and also keep working larger (18X24).
ReplyDeleteSheryl
Nice job on the wicker...very daunting task. I love the pattern the flowers give to the painting. It's light and loose without compromising detail.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Gretchen- I can't completely leave out detail, so I am glad I struck some kind of balance!
ReplyDeleteDear Mermaid,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations!! Great work!! We, all, know the paradox that without mastering detailed drawing, loosing up is impossible. A bit adventure, but you were brave enough to get through it and made it. Congrats!!
Kind regards, Sadami
Thank you, Sadami! I appreciate you visiting my blog and thank you for the nice comments!
ReplyDeleteSheryl
I really admire artists who can paint highly detailed works and especially in watercolor. I don't have the patience and I'm often too heavy handed. I think the wicker has just enough detail; it's lovely. It's so difficult sometimes to just stop and say 'done.'
ReplyDeleteI got so into your work, I almost forgot to say thank you for following Drawing-of-the-Day.
Great idea on the still life with chairs and flowers Cheryl. The chair is like a flower bed. Love it!
ReplyDeletethanks,
Irina
Oi, my apology Sheryl, I had a type-O on your name (see above comment) .. but you know no matter what your paintings are gorgeous, right?! :)
ReplyDeleteTalk to you soon,
Irina
Hi Sheryl - good of you to comment on my recent Venice painting and our proposed trip to Italy. Have enjoyed working through your more recent posts and love the way you tackled the wicker work and - oh yes- that beautiful black poodle. Will be sure to keep an eye out for your new postings.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Sheryl! Has such a lovely, calm inviting feel to it. Makes me wish I were sitting close by with a cup of coffee :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by and commenting- L.W., Irina, Joan, and Teresa! Irina- doesn't matter how you spell my name, just love your comments! Teresa- I sit in that chair often with my coffee!
ReplyDeleteAmazing painting. I'm so glad I found your blog today from Laure's announcement on the 100 painting challenge blog.
ReplyDeleteI'm also in California ... and I'm a proud Navy mom.
Thank you so much, Claire- I am on my way to your page now!
ReplyDeleteWe are practically neighbors, I am next to Tracy.
Sheryl