8x10 Oil on Canvas
As artists, we want to develop a style. We would like people to look at our work, and know who the artist is. Getting there is a difficult process that requires hard work and learning. The best way to learn, I think, is to take a workshop with an artist who's work inspires you. When you look at their work you say, "I wish I could paint like that". Many of us don't have that opportunity. The internet is a great way to "study". There are so many artists to discover, and therefore, a great way to see what kind of art is inspiring and ultimately discover how you want your paintings to look. I don't know if I have been hiding under a rock, but I just discovered Richard Schmid. I don't want my paintings to look exactly like his, but I want to learn how he achieves the animated brushwork, how to say a lot without fussy details, and what is the process for starting each painting. I have ordered his book called "Alla Prima". So I will be taking a workshop from him in my own home. He also has DVD's.
One lesson is about blocking in values. In this painting from Main Street East in Hamilton (some shrub type trees are still hanging on to their green leaves), I tried to block in the shapes with their values, and add details near the end. So much to learn....sigh.
