Wednesday, April 1, 2009

The Divide

9x12 pastel and watercolor on Uart paper
This is again the Chama River. This time I am looking to the left from the bend (in the last painting). While I painted this early this morning the winds were blowing fiercely. Within an hour the snow was coming down horizontally. So I finished up quickly and somehow my car drove me to the hot springs in Ojo Caliente, where I happily watched the snow from inside my hot spring. Ahh....
My focus on this painting was again grand space. The method was the same. First I created a value/temperature underpainting then used color to create space. Since the light was very low I heightened the foreground the provide the needed space.

6 comments:

Donna T said...

I love the abstract design of this, Loriann. Very nice piece! When you say "value/temperature underpainting" do you mean your usual way of doing them or are you referring to your recent oil techniques? I thought of you yesterday when I had the chance to paint on the Potomac. It was 2PM and the colors were very washed out and dull so I tried to imagine how you would see the scene. Your work is very inspiring - thank you!

Karen said...

I am officially in love with your N.M. series. It's like when I look at them I can almost imagine exactly where you were standing! I'm so glad you're finding your way around to these spots.
And you're getting at the atmosphere and light perfectly...such as the difference between Juniper in full light and these past two. It's really cool to see that dramatic difference.
Enjoy your trip!

loriann signori said...

Hi Donna,
Thanks for your kind words. You pose a good question I should have been clearer. Due to my new oil underpainting techniques I am now altering my watercolor underpainting. My concern before was color, now value is primary concern and I try to wait for the color fun till the pastel. Delayed gratification....not my strength. Where were you on the Potomac (my first love)? Thanks again!

loriann signori said...

Hi Karen!
I wonder how it is in Scottsdale? Thanks for checking in when I know you are busy. Aren't you finding the light in Scottsdale so different than Chicago? I know I am! It's like relearning how to ride a bike! I feel like I have training wheels on!
Enjoy your trip too!

Donna T said...

Loriann, I was at a public boat launch in Jefferson, MD but I found another one just across the bridge into VA and am very excited to check it out.

loriann signori said...

Donna,
Hmmmmmm, Jefferson...I will have to look on a map when I get home. Enjoy the river!