Tree & Sky Studies, 6 x 8 each.
In Scott Christensen's half day workshop, we were encouraged to go out and do as many "starts" as we could. We were to focus on the elements that puzzle us: trees against sky, how the light makes some things warm and some things cool, how the values help to establish important horizontal, vertical and diagonal planes... but not worry about finished paintings.
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He pointed out that we would all become much better painters if we would stop trying to make "completed, perfect paintings" while in the field. We should be out there observing, learning and experimenting. No wonder he's so good! :) These are my three studies from that morning.
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I wish I could share every detail of my "Weekend with the Masters", but it would be way too much to talk about every demo I saw and panel discussion I heard. The teachers were gracious and engaging and there was a spirit of comraderie among all the participants. It was pretty fabulous in every way.
Seems taking workshops and classes is all about making many starts. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us, Laurel. Many lovely paintings!
ReplyDeleteWish I could have attended the workshops too. Thanks for letting us in on what you learned. I think Christensen is right about not trying to make finished paintings in the field. I have to force myself to think like that. I find it's easier the smaller the canvas.
ReplyDeleteHi Laurel,
ReplyDeleteI'd love to hear more. These paintings are beautiful. In my opinion you are one of the "masters"
or "msters". You are one excellent and inspiring painter.
XOXOXOXOBarbara
Laurel, your brushstrokes make me so happy!
ReplyDeleteJust found your blog from Wanda C, and I'm impressed with your work. I'll be back for more of your yumminess.
Laurel, Thanks so much for sharing your workshop experiences! Please keep them coming! It's so inspirational and uplifting to hear about new ideas!I just love it!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you had a great time. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.
ReplyDeleteI love your starts...
ReplyDeleteWill you use these starts as studies for future larger studio work or just enjoy the experiences?
Lucky you, must have been amazing to attend the workshop. I'm sure you need time to let it all settle in but do you feel you come away a better painter?
ReplyDeleteThanks for posting these demos, Laurel..so great to see! And even though your descriptions of each teacher are necessarily brief, they give us a glimpse into each one's unique approach. That sounds like it was well worth it.
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