Self Portrait, 8 x 6Hello, again. Wow, posting two days in a row! I have to say I'm glad Christmas is over, so I can get back to painting. Today's exercise was lots of fun for me. I had finished the architectural subject from yesterday's post and was noticing how clean and squared off everything looks. Not that there's anything wrong with it, but I seem to tend toward the precise, especially when working on architectural subjects, in the studio.
So, today I decided to get a mirror and do a timed study of my very own (aging!) face. It was fun not worrying about flesh tones, much less photographic precision. I didn't even "draw" an underpainting, instead starting in with the main skin color and building "planes of color," which is something Cezanne was known for. I really want to start doing this at least a couple times a week, as I think I benefit greatly from letting down my guard, so to speak. If you have an opinion on this, either way, I'd love to hear it.
Happy painting.
So, today I decided to get a mirror and do a timed study of my very own (aging!) face. It was fun not worrying about flesh tones, much less photographic precision. I didn't even "draw" an underpainting, instead starting in with the main skin color and building "planes of color," which is something Cezanne was known for. I really want to start doing this at least a couple times a week, as I think I benefit greatly from letting down my guard, so to speak. If you have an opinion on this, either way, I'd love to hear it.
Happy painting.
7 comments:
Bold and wonderful!
You did not mention how much time it took you but it looks like you got a great likeness!
I love self-imposed exercises! This is a great one and it will be fun to see how it develops. Nice work!
Really great! I can't wait to see the next one. Happy New Year!
Great exercise and isn't it freeing not to worry about correct flesh tones? Your color planes are further identified by the strong angular brushstrokes, well done.
I can certainly relate to the clean, squared off architectural pieces, although I don't really get that from your work. I like this exercise, I only wish I had the courage to do it. I'm afraid in my case, an airbrush would be in order!
Not being an artist, I'm frequently a bit shy about posting my comments. However, as your sister, I can certainly say that I love this painting, and it looks just like you! How do you DOOOOO that?
I really enjoy your series of self portraits and hope to see you continue with this. You are putting the process into words, your thoughts about color, influences, etc., All this keeps the flow going, but can keep us up at night as well.
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