The impressionist knew that shadow colour was all important and how we interpret skin tone has as much to do with the colours in the shadows as it does to the very brightest colours in the areas of highlights  Blue, mauve and purple under a light pink or ochre may not be for everyone but the cool shadows then doesn't distract from the warm highlights.

Returning to the torso

I must admit updating this blog has been a low priority, and unfortunately my painting and sketching time has also suffered. So i'm starting back slowly. This "half torso" took me considerable longer than 2 minutes But I had fun.

the radiant rose

pastel over watercolour wash on paper

2 minute (& a bit) torso

i was waiting for a big weather event ...yes a true cyclone ...thought it would be a great opportunity to paint ... and it was ...but my inexperience with acrylics is clear so i did need to "finish" off with pastels


The music is In my garage by EST

inviting the colour in

bit by bit i can see my art... actually becoming decent art... I have let the colour start to position itself and lift the mood, using bolder strokes, an am leaving the detail till the very last minute... having a model full of life, joy and understanding helps

It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living.
I want to know what you ache for
and if you dared to dream of meeting your heart’s longing.

...from the invitation by Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Mucking around in boats

coat hanger
Originally uploaded by sigh clone.

This year I did'n't participate in the big race... but i did get plenty of opportunity to muck around in and near some great boats



I've also enjoys coming to grips with "painting" with pastels... I love the pure colours... so you may see me using this medium more and more