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Hey there!
I'm straightening the studio, to make room for 2 Canadian friends that are coming up this weekend for a week of painting... I can't wait! Not only will we have a great time, whatever the weather, but they are both inspiring and a heck of a lot of fun! Yippee Skippee!!! Poor Don... I'll have to get him some ear plugs. :)
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Hot Off the Easel!
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Painting in Progress....
12 x 12 canvas
In last week's idea sparkler, I was playing around with my groceries and figuring out how I might compose them into a painting... Here's as far as I got. I'm not sure at this point, exactly how I'll finish... I'm leaning toward collage....because I'm a glutton for punishment! (Collage takes me a long time)...Stay tuned!
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Idea Spark-lers
| | Are you needing some painting ideas to get you going? Well, you've come to the right place!
Plein Air Painting.... Get outside... right now!
Swamp along Deadstream Road
8 x 8 plein air (sold)
Plein Air painting has become a really popular activity over the last 5 years or so. As an artist, there is something about the immediacy of it...and the challenge. The light changes quickly, and if you're in a public place... you need to deal with... the public! I've had many a laugh at some of the things people say to me while I'm painting. If that sort of thing bothers you... ear buds and an ipod work great as a slight deterrent.
I'm far from an expert... Here's a link to Marc Hanson's blog... His plein air work is amazing!
Some things that might help you get started....
1. As a baby step, paint from your car rather than out in the open. You're removed a bit from "the public" and no one has to see (or judge) what you are doing.
2. Think of the paintings as sketches... not finished paintings. Plein air sessions can be thought of as information gathering exercises... sort of like a sit-up, but way more fun.
3. Start with pencil and no color, then you are only concerned with value and shape. When you are comfortable with the pencil... push on to pen and ink... it's still just black and white, but a bit less forgiving. Then step up to watercolor.. the ease of watercolor makes it a perfect plein air medium.
I hope you try the experience of painting outside at least once... The fall (here in Michigan) is a wonderful time to be outside! Crossing my fingers that this glorious weather we've been having will last through next week, so my visitors and I can get out and paint!
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If you think any of your friends might be interested, please feel free to forward this email.
Have a Great Week! |
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