Monday, September 13, 2010

Monday Morning Drawing Class -- Another go at the vase

"Moroccan Vase and Apples"
Pastel

Bob told us to bring back our vase piece to finish it in class today. If you compare it to the previous post, you can see that things changed a bit. The plums and apples all ripened over the two week hiatus for Labor Day. Bob did not put up a back drape, so the background changed. The vase is oriented differently, which Bob said made for a better layout, so he suggested I alter my pastel. Pastels are much more foregiving than watercolors. I love learning to differentiate values in my drawing class because it helps with all my art projects. I should do a lot more to this pastel -- the background needs much more work and the plums could be darker, but I am leaving on a jet plane in the morning (again!) and must pack. Good thing I have a great housesitter. I'll be mostly off-line for a few weeks.

Meanwhile, I decided to submit a small watercolor to the Santa Clara Valley Members Show. I know it's not a winner, but I really want to participate in "Alternate Realities." You've seen this work before.

"Memories of Norway"
Watercolor
11" x 14"

I wrote about the piece here. I wanted to create a painting for the show, but the fact is, I do better selecting something from the work I've done this year. When I try to be creative on demand, I am disappointed in the results. I love to see the work in the Members Show each year because the calibre of artists is very high. If you are in the area, do plan to come to the reception on October 17 from 1 to 4 p.m. to view the work, meet the artists, see the awards ceremony, and enjoy food, wine, and live music.

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

Now I'm thinking of that song... leaving on a jet plane.... Have a safe trip.
Your pastel is lovely. Although I think they are both great, I do see the improvements in this piece. Wonderful! I love the porcelain feel you achieved with the vase.
Your watercolor is lively, fun and artistic.
See you when you get back!

Anonymous said...

Hi Mary,
I like what you're doing with the pastels! The colors are rich and strong and the drawing is wonderful.

I know what you mean about painting for shows; it hasn't worked for me either. Too much stress, I guess. I like the piece that you've chosen; wonderful design.

Happy travels!

Christiane Kingsley said...

Have a great trip!I really like both these paintings. Great job as always.

hw (hallie) farber said...

Great vase; actually, great work. I see the sheen of the pottery.

Barbra Joan said...

Oh Mary! your off again... sometimes I actually catch you that day your at home !! lol. Have a wonderful trip and you know how I think your pastels are your best work and still do. talk to you when you get back.

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Chelsea Susan Bednar said...

Oh I like this. The movement is really fun and the pastels are glowing.