Thanks for writing, Susan and Sara. Galicia is a surprise, not like I imagined Spain would be (based on Don Quixote and flamenco.) Such beautiful green countryside, small working farms, tiny ancient villages--and the pilgim's Camino passes through all of that. I'm really enjoying the chance to walk and paint here. Already planning another trip back. And yes, the food is good--especially the cheese, bread, sausage and wine!
Susan, I notice you do a lot of square format paintings. Art teachers often speak of the golden mean in reference to good compositions in rectangular formats. Is there some similar tried and true guideline for square format? Thanks in advance, Kay
You don't see many square formats before the 20th century. I like the way the square calls attention to itself--I'm very aware of the composition within a square, while with a rectangular, I'm seeing more "subject and background". But i use both, depending on the composition. Beware of "tried and true guidelines"--teachers often love them, but they make for predictable paintings.
Thank you. I find myself really liking the square format too and want yo improve my composition skills overall, regardless of format. Anyway, your point about predictability is well taken. Thanks, Kay.
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My visual journal is inspired by what I see every day: the weather on my hill in northern Vermont, what’s growing in my garden, a curio brought back from travels or an ordinary object from the kitchen shelf made special by careful looking. "Journal" paintings are fast, improvised daily entries, a chance to experiment with new approaches and pay attention to the here-and-now. When I’m traveling, quickly recorded impressions are posted from Paris, Provence, Spain, Maine and anywhere else I’ll find myself this year. My large studio compositions take time, planning, refining of the original inspiration. I'll also be sharing that different kind of creative process with you here on "A Painter's Year".
9 comments:
Ok. You sold me. I'll go!
You're colors are so alive.
¡Precioso!
My favourite landscapes in Spain are from the north: lots of green, mountains and sea.
And the food is terrific!! :-9
Thanks for writing, Susan and Sara. Galicia is a surprise, not like I imagined Spain would be (based on Don Quixote and flamenco.) Such beautiful green countryside, small working farms, tiny ancient villages--and the pilgim's Camino passes through all of that. I'm really enjoying the chance to walk and paint here. Already planning another trip back. And yes, the food is good--especially the cheese, bread, sausage and wine!
i love the mood of this painting ... the warm and cold colors... and the calmness of this scene ...
I agree...the scenery looks lovely and your interpretation is too! Especially like the colors and crisp light. Thank you. Kay
Thank you for your comments, Kay and Mojtaba! It was lovely being outside in warm sun and spring breeze doing this painting.
Susan, I notice you do a lot of square format paintings. Art teachers often speak of the golden mean in reference to good compositions in rectangular formats. Is there some similar tried and true guideline for square format? Thanks in advance, Kay
You don't see many square formats before the 20th century. I like the way the square calls attention to itself--I'm very aware of the composition within a square, while with a rectangular, I'm seeing more "subject and background". But i use both, depending on the composition. Beware of "tried and true guidelines"--teachers often love them, but they make for predictable paintings.
Thank you. I find myself really liking the square format too and want yo improve my composition skills overall, regardless of format. Anyway, your point about predictability is well taken. Thanks, Kay.
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