I mentioned in my last post that I wanted to focus my attention on improving my ability to paint realistically. Over the last two years I have been consistently impressed by the teaching, paintings and generosity of Barry Coombs. He posts his lessons and examples from his classes on his blog (see my Blogroll). I have always thought I would benefit from trying the exercises he teaches in class. Well, the time is now and he has just recently started a new term. Here is the link for week one. I started by making a series of compositional sketches using Barry’s “set up”. His compositions literally glow with vibrant color so I was itching to move on but I made myself THINK as I did my sketches.
Compositional Sketches – Barry Coombs Week One
I thought the final two compositions were the best so I darkened the basic outlines and moved on. Next I completed color sketches using the last two compositions. These were done in a Bee sketchbook that handles watermedia (although not like WC paper). These are not meant to be finished paintings but were helpful as I determined my color scheme. I decided to use Barry’s original color scheme with a very dark background that is primarily brown. I hope I get started on the painting today. The pile of shoes he used for week two is beckoning!
Color Sketch 2
Color Sketch 1
I’m glad you are having fun and expanding your expertise. Sometimes I sit and look at a developing piece of art and then try something that I have never done before. It pushes me and I like that.
I am trying to take think of this as a serious learning opportunity. I’ve learned not to fear failure and to enjoy the challenge – hard for my type A personality.
I love Barry and am thrilled that he always posts his lessons and shares valuable knowledge. I think you did a great job here. I also saw his pile of shoes and thought that it would be so much fun to try. Good luck!
Thanks Carol. The shoes are so funny! How to make brown attractive???
I’m not sure how to make brown shoes attractive. Don’t make them brown? LOL! I will be checking to see what you do with that pile of shoes.
They’re lovely, Linda. Those colours are so warm.
Thanks Hanneke. I’ve drawn the actual painting but haven’t started painting yet. I’ve been watching our Presidental Inauguration all day.
I like them both — your customary incandescent color. For what it’s worth, and I’m not sure why, but I like the one on the right a lot better.
I agree! I just finished the painting and will be posting as soon as I get my image shot. Yeah!!!!
Love seeing the sketches and the colour studies. I push this kind of preliminary work with my (studio) students. Sound process leads to successful product.
I keep reminding myself! Thanks Barry. Your blog has been a real inspiration for me.
aloha Linda, i like the painterlyness in both of these color sketches. a great sense of water and watercolor comes through in that. fun. aloha.
Hi Linda
It has been ages and I hope you are well.
As soon as I saw these I thought of Barry – he is a good guy hey?
Man I just love your rich colours here – it is good to see you working away still.