January 10, 2009:
A work in progress: sp-21 part E. My momentum slowed on this painting over the holidays, but it also went through a few compositional changes, which took place over a few sittings. (It was originally my intention to photograph the painting after every sitting, and while I still mean to do that, unfortunately it did not happen.)
The repoussoir and the beamed ceiling (both borrowed from Vermeer) are probably the biggest changes. I included a ceiling line in my original drawing but discarded it because the actual ceiling in my studio lacks definition and I didn't have a solution in mind. After studying the composition more, I decided that all the verticals needed a lid (so to speak).
The repoussoir is an interesting element (read the Dec. 31 entry for more about repoussoirs). The invented drapery has been difficult, but I enjoy the effect. I will be staging a reference soon--which should help it come together.
I have been going back and forth about where the figure's attention should be directed. It was originally looking out toward the viewer (or literally, as I saw it in the mirror), but it seemed too static. I'm not sure that this new direction is the best answer, but it's a start.
I also changed the lamp's orientation. I wasn't ever thrilled about the original placement, but I liked the light it cast in the room. With that in mind, I moved the lamp in the painting, without changing the light.
Still a long way to go...
Continuous:
I teach an observational painting class at O.S.A. (Oregon Society of Artists).
The Portrait, Still life, and Landscape are among the subjects covered. Focusing on observational drawing and painting, students learn to analyze what they see and record it with accuracy. Various observational techniques such as sight-size drawing, and tips for achieving color accuracy, are discussed.
Class time: Mondays, 1:30 - 4:30pm.
Oregon Society of Artists
2185 SW Park Place
Portland, OR 97205
503-228-0706
www.oregonsocietyofartists.com