Painting Class - Day 2

"Tell me what's going on with this shadow, Anne."

"Well..."

"It looks as though you painted it without a reference."

"Yeah, actually I put it while the model was on a break."

"Well, It SUCKS!"

I rolled out a belly laugh for that on the outside, and was shouting 'Hoorah!' on the inside.  And here's why:  if the teacher, who's job it is to criticize without being discouraging, feels comfortable enough with you and your work to flat out tell you something in your painting sucks, you must be doing pretty good overall.  Not only did I get a knuckle rap for rushing and failing to look at my source, but Margaretta also helped me see that the shadow had some rose in it.  I would never have seen that on my own.

The background is just blobs of color at this point.  I'll work on those a bit during the week so I can focus on painting Yi during class.  Yi, by the way, has gotten a painting in a show in France!  Go, Yi! 

In class today, I rearranged her face.  Not in the the boss sent Guido down to have a talk wit youse way.  More of a I'm not used to painting a live model and her head is really wonky way.  I think it looks much better now.  Next class I'll work on her legs, as well as getting more shading done.

If you are having trouble with a painting, or just don't know where to go, I suggest photographing it and looking at it later on the computer.  It gives you some distance to be able to see your work with a more objective eye.  I've learned this from blogging and posting my work.  It's very helpful. 

I've also been working on a new project using tempera ink resist.   I had tried it once before with average results, but yesterday's efforts were better.  I bought some watercolors, which worked much better than the fluid acrylics.  However, I realize a little practice is in order. 

Still, I'm pleased with the results.  The one to the right with color is almost complete.  I'll touch up the blacks a bit here and there.  The one below is in the pre-color stage.  It looks kinda cool as is, but I'll add color tonight.  I'm really looking forward to doing a portrait with this technique.  I might do a self-portrait next.

Well, they say you have to do something for 1,000 hours to become an expert.  I guess I better get on this!