When I first started this painting, I found that I was driving myself insane by trying to paint every single feather I saw. Well, that wasn't working and my frustration level was going through the roof so, I did the only sensible thing I could and made myself stop. Now, I don't paint realism and what I hope to convey is an idea through my paintings. So, I took another look at my reference photo and asked myself what did I see. What really made an impression on me were those magnificent drapery wings. Once I had the idea of drapery in my mind I started to paint in a much looser fashion and pretty soon I started getting happy with what I was doing.
I'm lucky enough that my guy and I usually get to spend a week at South Padre Island in Texas every year and I was fortunate to capture this image on film. I love pelican watching while we are there and always try to come back with lots of reference photos. So number 3 in my challenge is done. Thanks again for looking.
Really wonderful work, the freedom of your brush I is marvelous.. I love your read on the paintings and the titles are a breath of fresh air..
ReplyDeleteI love your pelican, his graceful wings are a wonderful counterpoint to those feet bracing for a landing.
ReplyDeleteGlad you have your paintbrush back in hand.