Monday, September 22, 2014

Potomac Gorge and making use of old paintings

pastel over oil, 32"x37"
 A huge sheet of gatorboard (pure plastic, not like gatorfoam) was sitting in my studio. It had a base of marble dust with gesso and some pastel on it, but the pastel was not worth keeping. I rubbed it down, then used gamsol to reduce it. Now it had a resemblance to the Potomac gorge, Great Falls, MD. So I started with thinned oil paint and because of the rubbed pastel underneath, beautiful neutrals developed. Next, I layered those with fresh pastel. The Potomac Gorge is a place I visit often..a majestic place. I looked back in my files at paintings I had done of the gorge and other photos I had taken. I wanted to see the shape of the major land forms.
The most important thing was- I felt that nothing was precious. I was totally free. I have to remember that for next time.

5 comments:

neraul said...

Beautiful result!

Unknown said...



Yes,your right. How can an artist keep that attitude "nothing is precious"? It is the door you go through to get in the zone. Beautiful painting Loriann.

loriann signori said...

Thanks Lauren!

Anthony, it is so true,,,we have to constantly be willing to let go and not impose. A very tricky thing. Thanks for your kind words!

Liz Merchant said...

"So I started with thinned oil paint and because of the rubbed pastel underneath, beautiful neutrals developed." Isn't this the way of it? Sometimes...you just have to feel your way into the unexpected... and it is wonderful.

loriann signori said...

Well said Liz! being present with the painting and not forcing my agenda. I am trying to learn that for other aspects of my life as well. Thank you!!!