"Ribbons, Cherry and Petunia" Oil on 6x8 canvas panel
I'm always trying different painting surfaces, to see what feels best to me. I had a package of canvas panels, that I didn't think I'd use because I don't like the heavy woven texture. I've tried adding more layers of gesso on to smooth the surface out. I don't care for painting directly onto white though and usually do a thin wash of turp. and raw umber over the dry white gesso. But, it occurred to me that I could just tint the gesso. So, I added some acrylic raw umber to the gesso, until it was a nice gray and applied 2 or 3 coats. It was a perfect color, almost like a tinted drawing paper might be, and very inviting to paint on. I did a little test painting with a piece of ribbon (below), and loved how the paint felt on the surface. I wiped it off... and started again with a piece of ribbon, added a flower.. and then changed the position of the ribbon and painted it again, and so on. Even though it started out as a sort of random test painting, the more I look at it, the more I like it!
Thanks for stopping by for a look at my artwork :-)
Wonderful, like to see an artist at play
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Nice post. I like hoe you show your setup.
ReplyDeleteThank you!!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful piece! Thanks for the in progress photos!
ReplyDeleteThis is SO beautifully painted, Debbie!! Love it.!
ReplyDeleteThank you all for stopping by a leaving me such nice comments!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading about your process. The finished painting is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI have really enjoyed following your blog and painting progress. I seem to always struggle with what light to use on my still life set-ups. Can you tell me how you illuminate your still life box and what kind of light you use?
ReplyDeletethanks,
Brenda
Hi Brenda, Thanks for the comments and question... I am always changing things around, especially the lighting. I have a standing floor lamp that I use to light my subject. I have recently put a compact florescent bulb in it.. those new curly kind.. a daylight 5000 K bulb with cool light. It's great!
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