Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Magnolia Bud


This is my latest painting. I have been able to work it with no deadlines and have totally enjoyed painting it. Again I must say that pleasure is a factor that contributes to the quality of a painting.
I have worked on the three dimensionality of it paying special attention to the light and shadows. I think it has allowed me a most valuable learning experience and I am very pleased with the results. Unfortunately the photo does not do it justice.
While painting this picture I again was drawn to realistically capturing the visuality of the bud and the many leaves. (I think there were about 36 leaves in it!) I am continually pulled to do more abstract work and yet I strive to create pieces that are realistic. I enjoy painting more abstract backgrounds but usually for the foreground I'm compelled to paint it realistically. I really do not know yet whether to go with my realistic tendencies or force myself to try and do more abstract work. What do you think?
I have two weeks until my teaching schedule picks up again. And I have not accomplished much on my to do lists. But I'm starting to think about my upcoming classes and what I hope to achieve with them.

7 comments:

Diana said...

Kathy, this is beautiful.. just gorgeous! I think you should do both. Paint whatever your mood or the subject calls for. Keep going.. It's lovely,Diana

Kathy Staicer said...

Thank you for both the complement and the encouragement.

Meera Rao said...

I love the greens, and you definitely got the 3-D effect :) may be I will get to see the original one of these days! i agree with Diana - you don't have to choose :)

Kathy Staicer said...

Thanks Meera. I really enjoy painting greens. There are so many of them to paint with!!

Beth Fox said...

I love the greens too - there are so many shades of green and you have captured them - the warms and the cools. Good see you at the Sea Wall Festival. I agree with the others, paint you mood and inspiration! Beth

Kathy Staicer said...

Thanks Beth. Your encouragement is very positive.

Robin said...

What a wonderful blend of greens...and the light is perfection..!