Its all Relative

One of my first attempts at drawing the human face and one of those 'still in progress' works. I don't have the poster that was my reference anymore and so this will remain incomplete for now. I'd like to think that I managed to capture the essence of this person - I wonder if that is enough to make him recognizable?

Studio Solutions

I just got done with setting up my 'studio', as I'd like to call it. The rolling chest (Suggested by E) is really handy. All of the paints, spare panels and other accessories neatly fit into the drawers. At the other corner is the Art Box and Panel - Plein air easel by James Coulter. Its a light weight, portable system which I plan to use indoors as well to avoid the bulk of a floor easel. The window should provide the much needed ventilation. And my favorite part - the drying racks! I was able to install them using Balsa wood strips, L brackets, thumb pins and some push pins. It was quite simple and the best thing is that they be relocated very easily. Now I have no excuse to procrastinate. I hope this setup gets me to the easel more often. I want to get myself into a regular painting routine and enjoy this space while am at it. 

  

Portraits with Laurie

A weekend with Laurie Johnson at the Redwood City Art Center - We painted from a model, starting with a value study and then painted in full color. Staring intently to identify the subtle color and value shifts wasn't too different compared to painting from a photo reference, thought getting the likeness was more difficult. I am stilll working on getting the values and temperatures right. I did learn to look for the planes in the face. The John Asaro head at the studio was very helpful. This painting was done on a PVC sheet textured with one round of sanding - the smooth surface makes the paint glide and the colors look brighter. I am not sure if I like it just yet. Laurie is a wonderful artist and a highly spirited person. It has been fun painting with her, and I look forward to learning more from her.