There are a few things happening now that make me pretty happy. First, I have been working with a gel medium and at times, a glazing medium. The painting is beginning to look a bit waxy like that of an encaustic painting. I hope I can retain that look. Next, some repeating shapes are emerging and I am trying to decide if I should just run with it. Principally, the blue arch and the bottom of the dress, as well as the sweep of the hands. At first glance I think these shapes help provide some sense of rhythm as well as aid in the structure of the composition. Finally, I added some Payne's Grey at the base to weight the image and I am thinking that I may take the dress into this shadowy area and merge them.
As always, there are some problems that I need to think about. I pulled the face in more clearly than I had intended. As I back away from it I realize this creates an expectation for the rest of the painting. The hands and the bottom of the dress may need to be pulled in with equal clarity. Also, the yellow is a color that advances into the foreground. I will need to find a way to push that arch back. I really wanted strong yellows and that bright blue in this painting when I started it. They are enthusiastic, and optimistic colors. Without them, the painting becomes more brooding. I will wrestle with this for a while. Finally, I need to reflect upon the mood I was reaching for in this painting. I want mystery, optimism and bravery to be the impression in this painting. I want her to "materialize" as one begins to grasp those ideas. As the face becomes clearer, I wonder if it will be too clear. I wonder if I need to lose some definition or grab onto more of it. Perhaps I am over thinking it.
See you next week! Feel free to share your thoughts.
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