Mixed Media Art. Photography. Inspiration.

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Work in Progress and SSS : Pasadena Palm


This painting was started a few months back, but I've been stuck on it, and can't figure out how to finish it.  I loved the colors before, but worked on it last week and thought I really screwed it up.  After walking away for a bit, I see that it's not bad, and I really like how the colors look in the cheesecloth.  I also remembered that sometimes art has to go through an ugly period before it all comes together. 

 I know that I need to work on the colors a bit, especially blending in around the branch and make it pop out more, and do a bit more glazing, but then what?   I think there's too much going on with the textures, leaves, and cheesecloth.  I do like where it's headed, but can't figure out what would pull it all together, and what to do on the left side...how to balance it all. 


Do I need a main focal point, and what/where should it be?   The branch?  In the beginning of this piece I was so excited because it seemed to be coming together quickly and easily.  I even had a great AHA moment with it involving cool embellishments to use...but...well... I'm stuck.

I know I'm almost there..the answer is just right there...and that's what's making it so frustrating.  I want to finish it, but I'm afraid I'll just mess it up more...but maybe that's part of my solution...I don't like it as much anymore, so how could I mess it up?  I guess I just need to go for it and not be afraid to just cover it all up if I need to...or not.  I have a few ideas, but the left side is just bugging me.  I'm taking this amazing online art class I told you about earlier..."Texture Town",  so I'm hoping I'll find my solution during one of the lessons.  I'll let you know what happens....


Anyway, moving on...


I love noticing and taking photos of shadows, it really is fun for me.  These were taken in Pasadena a few weeks back.  I took tons of photos that day, so you'll be seeing more of these over the next several weeks!


 I really loved the perfect shadow of this palm tree against this building. 

To join in with Shadow Shot Sunday, or to see more click here.


10 comments:

Lighthousegal said...

That is a beautiful shadow of the palm tree. It is interseting how the tree is on what looks to be the roof of a building. Not exactly where you think a tree would be. Thanks for sharing!!

Denise Riches said...

Hi Esther.. I love your honesty about the piece. I think it looks great and you have a great start. I can totally ralate to your feelings about messing it up. I too sit and stare at something I'm working on for fear of ruining what I have already created. I'm also too quick to judge something before it's done. Sometimes they do look a little boring and uncreative in the mid-stage. The fun comes in when we get to put the finishing details on and it comes to life. You're right, just do it!!!! What's the worst that can happen...You might find something NOT to do next time or create a technique you love. Can't wait to see the finished product!
Warmly,
Denise Riches

Crafty Green Poet said...

lovely shadow shots!

I like your painting, the colours are beautiful

Chubskulit Rose said...

Beautiful shadows you have!


Shadow Shots , have a blessed Sunday

Beverley Baird said...

What a gorgeous shadow! The tree really casts a great shadow!
I don't have any suggestions for your artwork. I do like where you are with it.

Unknown said...

The shadow of the palm tree is great. Charmaine

Anonymous said...

Well Esther! Let me start by saying,,, WOW...I love this piece thus far...and yes, I agree that you are soooo very close!
I am a lover of text..so perhaps some quote or inspirational saying would be a nice addition to the piece! Like 'LOVE IS A GARDEN' !

I also wanted to thank you for your visit to my blog...I truly do appreciate the time you took to comment!

ciao bella!

CREATIVE CARMELINA

Kristin said...

I love where this is headed! It's got your colors and your texture - so you KNOW it will be perfect in the end! And check out how fast you are growing?! Look at those followers, my friend! xoxoxo

chrisw said...

Love the textures,I could imagine little purple butterflies fluttering around.It's gorgeous

Sada said...

I love your theory that art sometimes needs to go thru an "ugly period..." And you cannot be deterred by that. Sometimes walking away, then returning later is exactly what is needed. Also, the palm tree shadow is GORGEOUS!!