Friday, January 25, 2008

Taking a break / Homework

I asked an artist I admire do a critique of my work. She said many things that I had been thinking of and gave me some new things to think about. I'm planning on taking a few weeks off to do some "homework". I want to practice ellipses (a lot), paint some white objects to get a better handle on value and also work on using more subtle color - less saturated color over the entire painting surface.

Also, I've been feeling pressure (only from myself) to create a painting every day. On days that I don't, I'm disappointed. Anyway, it's making me not enjoy painting as much because it's starting to feel a little like a chore to create a finished piece every day.

If I create something interesting, I may post it. Otherwise, I'll be back in a few weeks and hopefully I'll be better for it! If you have any good exercises you think I might benefit from let me know. This site has lots of useful information.

13 Comments:

Blogger Kellie Marian Hill said...

That's so funny, I was just thinking of sending you that "Seeing Values" post, and then I clicked on your link! I love your saturated colors, but I understand what you're saying- good luck, and I'm looking forward to seeing what you do!

7:11 AM  
Blogger indiaartist said...

Would you explain ellipses? There is another site providing useful exercises, http://emptyeasel.com/ and wetcanvas is also a good forum for artists for any art related discussion. All the best.

5:05 PM  
Blogger georgiana ewing said...

I love your work. Don't change it too much!

Georgiana

12:29 PM  
Blogger Jeff Mahorney said...

Brenda, Good for you. I respect your dedication. Those all sounds like exercises I could use also.
I love your work too so don't change too much. Out of curiosity can you say who you got the critique from? I'd love to get some solid advice along those lines. :)

1:02 PM  
Blogger Brendy Vaughn said...

iniaartist - ellipses are round objects. I'm interested in capturing how they change depending on the vantage point. For example, if you look at a drinking glass at eye level, the ellipses (circles at the top and bottom of the object) are flatter. If you look at drinking glass while standing above it, the ellipses are much rounder and fuller. I have a hard time drawing them accurately especially when they go off the edge of the canvas.

5:02 PM  
Blogger Brendy Vaughn said...

Thanks Jeff. I don't imagine I'll change too much but I could use some practice. It's a never ending process (well, never ending for me anyway).

Carol Marine did the critique for me.

btw it's Brendy not Brenda ;). It's an odd name. I get variations all the time.

5:06 PM  
Blogger Brendy Vaughn said...

Thanks for your support Kellie and Gerogiana!

5:08 PM  
Blogger Jason Waskey said...

I hear you on the whole ellipses thing. I've been practicing them as of late too.

Good for you on the 'homework'!

2:53 AM  
Blogger Jeff Mahorney said...

Brendy, I'm a dolt. Sorry about the name mix up. I get Jim as a variation a lot for some reason. heh heh.
Anyway good luck to you and I know we'd all love to hear how things are going.
:) Jeff

9:12 AM  
Blogger Connie Kleinjans said...

Good for you! There's growth in stepping out of your comfort zone. And, yes, I've been noticing the same pressure to produce something every day, and I don't seem to work that way. Also, I concur on the neutral tones. I'm trying to learn about them, too; therein lies much richness.

3:16 PM  
Blogger Jean Victory said...

Brendy,
Don't worry about trying to finish a painting everyday. When I first started, I was upset because I couldn't complete a "painting a day". Well, my body can't physically do it because of arthritis...no biggie. Paint for you and don't worry about how long it takes you...you do wonderful work...so full of color.

8:47 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I'd definately have to agree with your artist friend. But I do like your work.

Don't worry about finishing a painting each day, it's more about the practice of painting each day, than the actual pieces you create.

7:06 PM  
Blogger Mary Sheehan Winn said...

Just looking back through your pieces I'm really liking them. Great color, composition and drawing. You are quite good.
I just posted about my own high expectations without naming them. I've not achieved a painting a day (which, I think, is a feat).
I have, however, devoted myself more to my journey because of the 'daily painting' blog.
The interaction with other artists is great for the soul and for inspiration.
Good luck. Love your paintings, Brendy.

6:17 PM  

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