Apple 1

Pastel 6x6 on Sanded Paper

This still life study of an apple began as a timed exercise completed in 3 4-minute segments with a 1 minute wrap-up.  The result was worthy of some finishing touches and a signature.

Apple and Vase 1

 Study 6x6 in Pastel on LuxArchival paper

This is the result of my first still life in quite some time.  I have set a goal to improve my painting by regularly doing a still life and doing it quickly.  Here is the process I intend to follow with the result from this first exercise.

1.      Get the proportions and position right, Set the underpaint.

·         Locate your viewpoint in relation to the subject, mark that spot, and always return to that point to look at the subject.

·         Mark the shape of your object(s) first by marking its proportions within the picture frame – top, bottom, right, left.  Mark or sketch significant point within the object to get position and spacing correct.

·         Block in underpaint color / values for object, background, foreground, shadows – reserve white space for highlights.

·         Set block in with denatured alcohol, mineral spirits, or other

2.      Block in the object

·         Set the values and value relationships – darkest darks and lightest lights.

·         Set the broad form with values by color – define the object within the space marked.

·         Set the “accent” color and value relationships.

·         Add color to the whole object and adjust values.

3.      Complete the whole picture

·         Look at the object as a whole and complete the shading, edges, and reflections.

·         Add only the Necessary details.

·         Complete the background and foreground color and value.  Use background and foreground color to define the shape of the object not to be noticed of itself.

·         For this exercise, limit background and foreground objects – stay with abstract shapes or no shapes at all. 

4.      Finish it up

·         Adjust final details and edges.

        Remember, you are an artist not a camera.  Make the image your own.

        I post this message for myself - to keep me from becoming bogged down in detail rather than making my expression of the subject.