I recently taught a 3-day workshop in Easton, Maryland in which I had 17 students. That is quite a large class, but it went smoothly because of the incredible work ethic and great attitudes of the participants. What a great bunch! I really try to push students out of their comfort zones and this particular group was ready, willing, and able! Below are the demos I produced through the course of the workshop. I wanted to share these because they speak to the idea of the “painterly painter”...how far do you need to take a painting until it is “finished”? I continually work on capturing the essence of the subject and stopping when I have provided just enough information to engage the imagination of the viewer.
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This notion of “less is more” is why I find it incredibly enjoyable to demonstrate in front of a group. I know it makes some artists nervous, but for me it is definitely a time where the little “noodling devil” that tends to sit on my shoulder disappears. After all, my goal is to illuminate my process, not to create a “polished” painting.
Artists often joke it takes 2 people to paint a painting: one to paint it and the other to take the brush away. Having a group of people tell me to stop is a good thing! I may try to train my cat to do that...he could be my “mews”. ;-)
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
~ Leonardo da Vinci