My point is, please do not rely on photos. Use them only as a reference; otherwise, put them away and you paint what is in your heart. I am finally able to tap into my creativity which has laid dormant for many years. I have come up with some disappointing ideas, but in the end, I have had many successes. By using the gallery's theme, I ended up with a series of five "Sisters."
Ol Blue Eyes
I started this painting about two years ago, and ended up setting it aside as other work took preference. In January, I decided to go back to it, and finish it. I softened the hard edges making Frankie blend in with the background. Before, he looked like he was cut and pasted on top of the canvas.
Next, I added more shades of flesh tones to give his face a rounded look especially with his hat casting shadows on his forehead and sides. And finally, I reworked his hat and suit. Voila!!
Am I done?
Frankie is sitting on my easel for occasional viewing--it gives me time to reevaluate before I sign my name.There are some changes I do want to make (1) add highlights to his hat, (2) soften three lines on his face near the mouth and lighten a shadow under the nose, and (3) widen his upper lip.
Copyright 2006 by Shirley Rudolf's Watercolors. Artwork may not be used without permission of the Artist. All Rights Reserved. Last Updated December 2007.
