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GO TO YOUR ROOM !

I borrowed this phrase from the recently deceased Canadian painter Robert Genn who believed that there is only so much we can learn about how to paint from the many fine instructors and resources available today. The true learning comes from going off on our own and just doing it - Go to your room!

I have had the good fortune to take instruction from outstanding artists in Canada and the USA. I continue to work on my own development ( Going to MY room!) . I share, through this blog and workshops, what I have learned and what others have shared with me.

I created this blog primarily for those attending my workshops to keep in touch and to further share as we grow together. If others are interested in following that would be great.

Enjoy the journey.

Friday 26 May 2017

Ontario Plein Air - day two



Enjoyed another day working plein air. This time in the lovely community of Meaford which has a wonderful harbour with lots of subject matter.
Again, acrylic on linen mounted on board. Gesso mixed with Quin Red. Quick plan as thumbnail sketch. Sketch transferred to panel using with pencil. Final plan committed with acrylic marker - black.



Pencil Sketch  transferred from thumbnail

Acrylic marker final plan


Diox Purple Liquid glaze used to darken body of boats
Negative paint forming boats

Opaque paint carving negative spaces
 Adding some yellow to the negative space for "punch"
Throw it in an old frame to see if it helps. 

Don't think  I am going spend any more time on this one. Will add isolation coat ( Golden Soft Gel Gloss 2:1 with water) to bring out the darks and deeper colours and even the surface finish.

Fun sketch to do.





Tuesday 23 May 2017

First Ontario Plein Air sketches of the season


Yes, yes, I know, its been a long time. Life and other painting commitments get in the way. Also not much new to share that I have not already shared about my approach.

Today I made my first plein air sketches of the year in Ontario. Both quick and simple. Total time under two hours. Compositions weak - but its a start again. Just nice to be out.

Both 12x16 acrylic on canvas board.  Small thumbnail sketches.  Initial plan of large shapes laid on using pencil. Final plan made using acrylic markers.








Second sketch on grey gessoed board. 





Burnt Orange wash.

Best keep practicing.