Anyway, this is just an idea right now, but I'm enjoying the idea. Don't know if the idea will come to completion, but I hope so.
I've been talking about the importance of studies with my students. In my intermediate classes I am teaching them the importance of the study process in making a large painting. I have learned the hard way that it will always pay off if you take the time to draw your sketches in order to create a successful design before starting any painting. Before I was doing this I was just too darn excited about getting started and I didn't take the time. But I was only creating problems for myself and in the end would decrease the chances of a good outcome. So now I do the sketches. When I am designing the painting during the sketching process I look for a beautiful dark and light pattern. This is what makes the painting strong in design. Next is the color study. I paint a very small color study before I start the large piece. It is important that I stick with the value plan established with my sketch. Don't forget to do this.
So again, the sketch will establish the light and dark pattern for the piece. Very important. Use the color study to set your idea or "concept" while also keeping the value in tact.
What I learned from this study is that I like the value sketch much better than the finished piece. Now I'm re-thinking the final piece and I will probably not go for that much color. You'll just have to stay posted....
This process will set you up for success...!
5 comments:
You're right about the values being the bones of a good design. As for your study, I prefer the middle one. It's full of emotion and movement. I would like to see the girl defined more in it. It looks so dreamy in there. A scene anyone would love to take a stroll down...
Great post. I have experienced the value of sketches also. I usually (sometimes) do a sketch in black and white to get my values. It puts me so far ahead of the game. But I have not done the color sketches before. I will give that a try also. I can see where it would take a lot of the guess work out of starting the painting. Thanks ... Loved this post.
Hi Susan, Yes, I'm right there with ya! I'm working on the larger piece now and gonna try not to go overbaord!
Happy painting my friend.
One more thing, today I see a big problem with the value change in the umbrella behind her head. Need to correct that.
Ah, it takes what it takes!
Thank you Nancy. Yes, I don't always use a canvas this large (9x12) for the color sketch. Only when I'm going to paint LARGE. Jim Smyth, one of me teachers told me once to do a quick little tiny color sketch with paint, about the size of a thumbnail sketch. Quick and easy. Keeps me out of the details. That would be just as good I suppose....R
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