'Up in the Blue Ridge' 6x6 pastel ©Karen Margulis click here to purchase $50 |
Another thing that helps is to limit my strokes. I don't count them (you can if you need to ) but I try to put down a mark and leave it alone.
Smooth paper helps! Working on paper with little or no tooth forces you to be more selective about the marks you make. You don't have too many chances to get it right....resulting in less mud and overworked paintings.
Try some 10 minute limited stroke paintings and see how it helps!
I just got home from a wonderfully relaxing cruise. I need to unpack and get caught up but I was very productive and can't wait to share what I painted!
Hello Karen...i've been reading your blog now for sometime and have to tell you i've learned a lot! i've been using pastels for about a year now (i'm a full time potter) and absolutely love this medium. your fresh and direct approach really appeals to me and i'm trying to embrace that approach! this latest post is a great reminder to be more direct, i certainly have a tendency to overwork a piece! so thanks for taking the time and for being so willing to offer your wisdom!
ReplyDeletecheers, Linda
Hi Linda,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your kind words. I am so glad that you find my blog helpful! I appreciate you letting me know.
I agree with Linda. I tend to overwork my sculptures too. And this is a good reminder as I try to make a transition to painting. I really appreciate your insights. (And I'm anxious to finish framing the painting I got from you a few weeks ago. the simplicity and spontaneity are what drew me to it.)
ReplyDeleteGary Alsum
That's an interesting thought. I tend to like a little more detail than the example but it might be good to try it sometimes.
ReplyDeleteI know that timed sketching did wonders to help my rendering, till my sketches come out as or more useful than photos. I can see how timed painting may have the same effects! A great idea!