Thursday, November 17, 2011

Gray Flannel

Hi there, everyone!  I apologize for my recent absence.  I had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy during the first week of November.

(Thank goodness, gallbladders appear to be spare parts! Ha!)

So, instead of painting, I have been snuggled up on my sofa -- watching movies and in general -- being spoiled rotten.  It was quite fun!  But I'm glad to be back in my little studio.

I have been struggling lately.  Too much fussing!  I have lost count of the number of completed canvases that I've wiped clean.  It has been a learning process, though.  With the exception of the highlights, this painting was done with only my No.12 Monarch bright.

What do you do to keep your brushstrokes loose?  Or when you're in a painting rut?  I welcome any comments or suggestions.  Thanks, everyone!  I hope you're all having a great week!      

9 comments:

Linda Nickles said...

Darla, this is a great little painting -- nice composition; and the muted gray background is wonderful. Great title also! I can't offer advice for keeping loose, other than to say KEEP PAINTING! You've been through a lot, so don't beat yourself. You are good, so keep at it!!! :)

Darla McDowell said...

You're so sweet, Linda. Thank you! :)

Page Pearson Railsback said...

There you are..This painting looks great. Rut? Don't we all have them.. Look at other people's work and when you are inspired..borrow a color,or whatever pleases you with the inspirational artists work...and dare to have lousy paintings...it will come back around..Just Paint

Azra said...

So glad to see you painting again and hope you're feeling much better.These apples are Gorgeous!

Darla McDowell said...

Page, thank you for your creative insight. Your suggestions are wonderful. And even better, they are very practical to apply. I really appreciate it. :)

Azra, hi there! Thank you for your very kind comments. I am feeling great. :)

Sonya Johnson said...

Darla, it's good to see you back, and after a lap-choly, no less! Glad you recovered quickly.

Looking at this painting (and the one you posted later), one would never know you've been struggling. Both are beautiful, and if I could paint apples this well, I'd be thrilled.

Seriously, though - I honestly believe that struggles are an inherent part of growing as an artist; it means you are pushing your personal envelope. The fact that you learned from the wipe-offs is what is important. These paintings have a bold, almost defiant feel to them, which suggests you're out of your rut.

Keep it up - more Grannies, please :D!

Darla McDowell said...

Thank you, Sonya. It makes me feel better knowing that all of you have moments like this, too. You've given me a lot to think about, and I really appreciate it. Thanks again! :)

Lisa Daria said...

Hi Darla, when I'm in a rut I 'just show up.' It's all I can do and I paint, good, bad or indifferent. AND this one is a gem, truly, I like the color combination, the fading of the shadows and the positioning of the apples. The brush work is expressive and lively. Just keep painting, you'd never know you were in a rut, I hate that feeling myself, but it passes. And I'm glad you are feeling better.

Darla McDowell said...

To "just show up" is great advice, and you are a true inspiration. I appreciate your insight and your kind comments. Thank you, Lisa! :)