Tuesday, July 27, 2010

secret spots, Sanford Gifford, the muse

Artists always have special painting spots, ones we go back to time and time again  like homing pigeons. We set up our stuff in the exact same place time and time again. We intimately know this place, like a best friend or lover. It's a VERY personal connection.
During the break between workshops my muse, the field, was mowed. I had talked the mowers out of doing their job once and  the tractor broke once: the paintings gods had been with me. Then they mowed it. Sadness. I talked with Richard about it and he, in his very generous nature, shared his new favorite spot. A new love that I will add to my ever growing list of faves around the world. It's quiet and beautiful,  recipe for joy.
Still I struggled with this painting for a long time. Then I thought of Sanford Gifford. I remembered his gorgeous painting in the NGA.  To get the glassy feeling of water you need contrast. His sky was stimpled and his water was glazed and glassy. Taking that in mind I used my pastels differently.

9 comments:

Donna T said...

I was immediately drawn to the glassiness of the water in this painting, Loriann. Thank you so much for pointing out the contrast between the water and the sky! I would never have thought to do that (skies are "supposed" to be smooth) but the effect on the water is incredible! Gorgeous painting!!!

SamArtDog said...

Don't forsake your field. A new haircut always looks a little strange on everyone but then grows into another great do. Besides, fields get to wear neat things like rows and bales.

Nika said...

I agree with Sam, good things will come out if this haircut, you'll see.
I like the differing texture approach, it works here. Would be interesting to see you apply this method to other surroundings.
Maybe not exactly related your your texture struggle, I did a value drawing of a row of trees last night, it caught me by surprise how incredibly complex it was!

Casey Klahn said...

I like your descriptions of the details, but the feeling just comes through. You way succeeded in emoting your joy in this place.

Stunning.

Sally Veach said...

Loriann,

I like this piece! It shows in the marks from your hand that there were deliberate choices made to describe the essence of each area of the landscape. Your marks are guided by your expression of what you are seeing. There is a lot of substance with the variety!

Sally

Brenda Boylan said...

Striking! I agree with all the comments above, but for me, I am drawn in by the composition, which is not so apparent at first, but still holds my eyes! I like how you used the textures to make it read wet, I'll have to remember that one when I'm out again.

BTW, the difference between a good haircut and a bad haircut is 2 weeks! LOL!

Caroline Simmill said...

A classical painting of beauty Loriann.

Brian McGurgan said...

Lovely work, Loriann - the place "feels" familiar, like your Lake Needwood paintings. I like th econtrast in texture from sky to water.

loriann signori said...

Hi Donna, Thank you about the painting! I am glad that you can feel its glassiness. One lesson there.... always question and challenge what you know.

Hi Sam!
I went to the field today and I am still not ready to paint it bald. They took every bit of it away. So I have moved on for now and then to the Olympic Peninsula!

Hi Nika!
Value studies are essential tools for learning and you are right, they are complex.
When my field (each year) gets its haircut I always move on. We will see. i do like this new body of water!

Hi Casey and thank you! Feeling IS what its all about. Thanks for your comment.

Hi Sally, thanks for noticing the marks. I am starting to realize I LIKE marks..... its like a dance on the paper.

Hi Brenda, Thank you and I like your definition. I guess I will check the field in 2 weeks.;-)

Thanks Caroline! I appreciate your comment!

Hi Brian!
You are so right...it felt like Lake Needwood that is why i could fold right into it...like coming home!