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Finished the first set of samples - analagous colors. Each sample uses three hues, with tints, tones and shades. My plan was to move on to complementary schemes, then split complementary, etc. However as I observe these samples, I realize there are a lot of variations still to be tried. This set of analagous colors is not yet complete. I'll be playing with the proportion of each hue, working with greater value differentials and playing with composition.
Today's lesson: having a plan is good, but you have to be flexible and adapt the plan as needed!
Began creating samples for the color study project yesterday. It's taken me several weeks to get to this point. As I began planning my approach, I had the idea that the studies might be interesting grouped together to form a larger art piece. That drove the sizing of the samples. I brainstormed (and sampled) a variety of techniques and compositions, but none were speaking to me. I finally realized that the idea of this becoming finished artwork was holding me up. I had slipped back into my old perfectionist ways.
I meditated on it, and the solution came. First, I had to let go of the idea that these samples would end up in an art piece. They might, but that's really not the point of doing them. I want to focus on the creating and the learning as I go, not the end result.
For the composition, I'm using designs I created at a retreat a few years ago. The first set is analagous colors, using tints, tones and shades. Most of the studies I have done in the past were with fabric and dyes. I've been doing more mixed media lately, so I'm using acrylic paints for these studies. I really like what I've done so far. Looking forward to the journey!
I've always been intrigued with color and color relationships. I think it began back when I started dyeing fabric and didn't have a lot of money, so I bought the primaries and mixed my colors from there. Although I have done a lot of color studies over the years, the possibilities are endless! It truly is a lifelong journey.
For my first post-retirement project, I've chosen to work with Deb Menz's book, Color Works, the Crafter's Guide to Color. It has lots of great tools and color charts. She focuses on textile arts, but the concepts apply to all types of art. I've been working with acrylics and mixed media lately, so this time my color studies won't be on fabric with dyes. I'm still determining what materials I'll be using. You can expect to see photos of my process and progress over the next few months!
Almost six years since my last blog post. At that time, I didn't think I would ever blog again. Actually, I don't know if people even blog anymore. Doesn't really matter, though. I'm doing this for myself.
After my dad passed, I went through a period of depression - spent about 6 months doing nothing but watching Netflix. I realized I had to get out of the house, so I began volunteering with a local animal rescue, San Antonio Pets Alive! After about six months of volunteering, I began to work there. For the past 5 years, I have dedicated my time to animals, at the expense of my art.
Earlier this year I decided to retire and yesterday was my last day. While it is bittersweet, and I will miss being around the animals, I am excited at the opportunity to get back to creating.
Spent the day cleaning my studio, so I'm ready!
