What Chicken? w/c on arches paper, 6x6It was raining today so I played with my new watercolor sticks--they came with brushes but no directions. I pulled out a faded b&w Goodwill photo, turned it upside down, and painted the face, leaving two blank spaces for the eyes. Then I worked right-side up.
Here's what I think I learned. 1. I should probably sketch first. 2. With acrylics, I begin with the background--watercolors might require planning and I should probably begin with the nose or foreground (a bit like sculpting). 3. Dipping the brush in water and swiping it across the end of the stick is no way to control color.
I can't decide whether she resembles me when I was younger or Prince Charles.
This was fun but the beribboned hat was boring. I had leftover chickens from my 2009 painting of Miss Lulu. Why paint feathers when you can paint the whole chicken?
Here's what I think I learned. 1. I should probably sketch first. 2. With acrylics, I begin with the background--watercolors might require planning and I should probably begin with the nose or foreground (a bit like sculpting). 3. Dipping the brush in water and swiping it across the end of the stick is no way to control color.
I can't decide whether she resembles me when I was younger or Prince Charles.
This was fun but the beribboned hat was boring. I had leftover chickens from my 2009 painting of Miss Lulu. Why paint feathers when you can paint the whole chicken?
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I absolutely love her!!! She's got character, wit and attitude... a lot like you dear. Wonderful!!!
ReplyDeleteAs always, funny!
ReplyDeleteIt looks to me like you handled the paint just fine, and as you've said, watercolor does require planning (I can never work that way) I like what you've accomplished here. Chicken, Prince Charles and all.
What are watercolor sticks?
Pam, thanks. The chicken, though, looks like she's dead rather than roosting.
ReplyDeleteIndigomar, hi. I ordered these sticks from Daniel Smith--part of a five-color set that also contained brushes. They look like crayons and can be used dry for texture or wet. Then I got five additional colors and masking fluid (that will really require planning). These are for playing in the house without making a tremendous mess--fun. I'm considering a w/c card for those who've bought my paintings; I'm a bit late for Christmas--maybe a 4th of July card.
I've seen a lot of people starting to use these lately. They look so interesting. I think your sketch turned out great! I love the chicken; I love that it looks dead! It gives a quirkiness to the lady.
ReplyDeleteHi Raena. I think these will be interesting; it's been at least 30 years since I've used watercolors. (I did two paintings in a class; then it was back to sculpture).
ReplyDeleteI can hardly type. I'm laughing so hard that tears are pouring down my face. Your eclectic sense of humor is so fun and refreshing. I keep looking at the image to give my input and then I start laughing so hard again that I think I'll just have to give up. You're the best!
ReplyDelete-Don
The shadow on her face, colors and background is absolutely stunning! Well done..
ReplyDeleteHi Don. Thanks--I think. She does have a smirk (maybe she ate a wing).
ReplyDeleteMegha, thanks. I really enjoy following your blog.
I think she ate a canary. She looks out at me like the joke is on me... and I'm afraid she could be right!
ReplyDeleteI really like this, Hallie. I had to come back for another smile - and, now I'm laughing again. Thanks!
-Don
Hallie, this lady has character, just like you! You did a fabulous job for trying new materials and not a lot of preplanning. The chicken certainly makes this lady much more interesting! Way to fly...
ReplyDeleteHmmm... thought I posted a comment on this yesterday, but I must have forgotten to do something right. Anyway ... this is sooooo funny!! I love your sense of humor, but also appreciate the skill it took for you to create this painting. You're right that using watercolors is quite different from acrylics - almost the reverse process. But, you don't always have to plan. In your case, spontaneity works. Now - I must go dry my eyes from all this laughter!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Don. I think studies have proven that laughter is as beneficial as exercise.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mary. I have lots of supplies I haven't tried yet.
Thank you, Kathy. The chicken is probably worn out from laying eggs for your paintings. I was surprised at the brightness of the watercolors and understand why you enjoy working with them.
Hey Hallie, Enjoyed your post!! Also been visiting the blogs on your sidebar. Enjoying that too.
ReplyDeleteHi Sue. About my sidebar--I think some came from your blog. I believe "......Living with the Dead" came from you. Her work is amazing. Thanks.
ReplyDelete