I started this underpainting for a fairly large square format painting this week. It's 24x24. I've never painted a large square before. I think I'm going to like it. Starting a painting always gives the feeling of excitement. Kind of like going on a new adventure. I used Shale by Vasari, which is a rich, warm color with purple undertones. Anyone who has taken a class with
Deborah Paris is familiar with this color because it's the workhorse of her color palette.
Here's the reference photo I'm using. I took this shot last summer while my husband, dog and I were walking the trails of Silver Springs Park. Of course, I manipulated the composition (artistic license). As I lay in various layers of opaque and transparent paint, I'll post my progress. But that might take a while, since every layer needs to dry before the next is applied.
I started this underpainting for a fairly large square format painting this week. It's 24x24. I've never painted a large square before. I think I'm going to like it. Starting a painting always gives the feeling of excitement. Kind of like going on a new adventure. I used Shale by Vasari, which is a rich, warm color with purple undertones. Anyone who has taken a class with Deborah Paris is familiar with this color because it's the workhorse of her color palette.
Here's the reference photo I'm using. I took this shot last summer while my husband, dog and I were walking the trails of Silver Springs Park. Of course, I manipulated the composition (artistic license). As I lay in various layers of opaque and transparent paint, I'll post my progress. But that might take a while, since every layer needs to dry before the next is applied.
8 comments:
Janelle, if it's half as beautiful as the photo, it'll be magnificent. I love the title. Blessings!
Thanks so much for posting the beginning. I've wondered about this method and will enjoy seeing the progression. The inspiration is also interesting to note.
(so you were that-close to running into Karen on your outing... that's wild!)
Hi Janelle, what a beautiful painting just as it is!
The photo is very inspiring and it is interesting to read about how you are building up the painting. Are you using the shale alone or mixing it with another colour. I wonder if you are painting onto a white back ground as it looks cream on my screen. I can see you have an eye for detail as your painting so far is beautifully drawn with the brush.
Good luck with the square. I like the square format and my Conewago Spring was the same size. It is one of my favorite paintings of the last year.
I do like your start and that is an interesting underpainting color. I like it.
(I do have paintings to post).
Hi Marion, I've been thinking about painting a scene from this photo for a while. Blessings to you too!
Hi Jill, Must remember to stop and photograph each step (which means running down the stairs with my wet painting!) Yes, wasn't that wild? I couldn't believe that she was right there and I didn't even know it!
Hi Loriann, Thank you. Funny, I always think the same thing about your grisailles!
Hi Caroline, This underpainting is in Shale only. I stopped using TEY in the underpainting and now I can't remember why:) And yes, it's the white linen of the canvas in the background. It will be interesting to see how it goes!
Hi Neetzy, So you like the square too? I've noticed that a lot of artists do. I can't wait to see the paintings on your blog. The last one you posted was so beautiful and inspiring!
This is my very favorite! I think it's the tone of the brown and that beautiful reflective water! Gorgeous!
I am enjoying trying the larger square format as well. It does have a different feel, not sure why. I know exactly what you mean about the excitement of starting a new painting...wondering what each step of the way will bring.
The photo reference is beautiful. I will look forward to following the progress.
Post a Comment