Live Model
oil sketch
11" x 14"
Moving models are a particular challenge to paint. And by moving, I mean anyone breathing. Too often, I'm chasing subtle shifts in light and expression all over my canvas, forgetting the lesson to simplify and grab hold of the essence. The frustrating thing about sketching live is the time limit. The great thing about sketching live is the time limit. I can only "tweak" things for so long before the sitting's over. Usually, I just pray I've learned something to take to the next painting. It was heartening to read that Sargent would pace back and forth in front of his easel swearing, and that Degas' family would wrestle paintings away from him because he never thought they were done.
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23 comments:
Beautiful!!!...and you said it so well about live models, when time's up, it's over.
Helen Parkhill had an excellent quote from (can't remember who) on her blog the other day, "Step away from your painting, before it steps away from you."
Great job, Liz. I like how your paint describes the planes of the face. I haven't done live portrait sketches for a number of years-miss it.
Thanks Angela - I love the quote! It's perfect!
Thanks, Dean! Live portrait sketching with your most recent subject could be dangerous. : )
This portrait is excellent! He is so still, but has such character and life. I admire how natural your painting style is. KUDOS!
Very nice sketch, Liz! I love your watercolors and your look, listen paintings. You're brave to do watercolor, too!
Very beautiful portrait sketch, Liz. I love the colors you've chosen and the composition - wonderful!
Also, thank you very much for adding me to your Artist Blog list, Liz - I have added your blog to my list.
Wow! Amazing you were able to do such a fabulous job on a decent size canvas. When I grow up I want to be just like you!
Thanks very much Carolina Elizabeth and Cheryl. I appreciate it!
Edward- Many many thanks, and you're welcome.
Sheila - thank you, and you are so funny! You brighten my day always. : )
Absolutely wonderful work! This sketch is a beautiful example of painting shapes and observed color. I've just become a fan.!
Hi Liz, I agree with Marilyn, absolutely wonderful work. You are very talented. Thank you for visiting my blog, it's nice to know my art reminds you of your memories of your father and L.I.
Thank you so much Marilyn and welcome!
Thanks, Joan. L.I.'s a great place!
Thanks so much, Cathyann! A figure study high five to you. : -) We all plug away at this. It's nice to share the struggles and successes.
I've read that Degas was a demanding taskmaster to model for, too; he'd have those models in difficult poses for hours at a time. Having sat in for a missing model a time or two in my art school days, I have to say, sitting still is easier said than done!
Absolutely, right, r.garriott! I did my stint modelling as an art student, too, and it's no picnic. Better to be pacing 'round the easel!
Oh my goodness...this is so good! I was blown away to think you did this from a live model! I'm not nearly that brave.
Liz, this is fantastic. I love your choice of colours and I know how difficult it is to paint people when they're moving, well done!
thanks, Gwen!
Sam - thanks so much for your comments!
Wow, you have agreat expression in your portaits! I´m very impressed! Lots of greetings from germany, maren
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