Jug in Oil Pastels

 

I used a set of Pentel oil pastels on a sheet of toned Canson paper and feel like I got a good result with them. They are stiff compared to other brands that are more soft, but it allowed me to build layers and blend more easily. I really enjoy drawing and painting from life.

Lotus in Colored Sumi Ink

 

Painted with colored sumi ink and a touch of watercolor. I became interested in traditional Japanese art based on it's influence on western art in the 19th century. To gain a better understanding, I learned a little of the Japanese language. My experiments with black sumi which is the common ink used for painting and calligraphy did not turn out and would require more practice. However, a colored version of the ink produced interesting results on watercolor paper.

Medowlark in Stages

Showing a method of drawing and toning the subject before applying the color. A good drawing will produce a good painting. It is possible to "lose" your subject while applying paint if the drawing isn't secure beforehand. I read that graphite is not good for such a job and using charcoal seems to mess with my colors, so I choose to use a thinned French Ultramarine Blue  and a pointed brush to draw my subject. 11x14in. Water-Mixable Oils on canvas board.

Apples

 

I'm trying a limited palette of colors and layering a bit on that top apple for smoothness while applying texture to the pot. 11x14in. Water-Mixable Oils on stretched canvas.

Sakura

 

Watercolor is a mystery to me. I watch tutorials and read books on supplies and techniques and nothing turns out as it appears. I would need hands on teaching to get a good result, everything from stretching paper to handling washes. However, I still give it a go occasionally in small dimensions. This is my first completed watercolor 6x9in. 140lb Paper.

Bowl of Lemons

 

 

My first completed oil painting. This was painted from a photo reference in a painting class. The teacher was gracious enough to allow me to use water-mixable oils. I learned a lot and as a result produced a decent result. 16x20in. Water-mixable Oils on stretched canvas.

Day Lilly

 

Graphite is my first love. I found inspiration in the garden, so I took pictures for reference. Of course such a subject begs for color. Sketching/drawing provides a road map for future painting. However, looking for shapes and values was interesting enough. 5,1/2 x 6,1/2in. graphite on sketch paper.