"Paintings have a life of their own that derives from the painter's soul." Vincent Van Gogh

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Drawing and Painting

What a joy this mornings portrait session was! Jeff was a perfectly composed model and somehow he neglected to bring  his parrot, his dog and his pony to the studio! He, did, however, insist on wearing his heavy tortoise shell glasses - but  no matter. Although I could not see his eyes and this session was so well attended that there was no hope of moving my easel, I feel that today was a success. I allowed my mind to fill with thoughts of Jeff and how they might translate into marks made upon the paper.
Jeff / graphite on cream paper / 24 x 18

Jeff / graphite and white charcoal on tan paper /  14 x 11
 In a week filled with family dramas, I found time to dash off a quick portrait study on cardboard and to begin Ballerina painting # 31. Its been a while since a ballerina called to me and I was most definitely caught by surprise!
James McNeill Whistler study / oil on cardboard / 12.5 x 12
 I love this concept of her and can't wait to work on it again - however, tomorrow I am flying to Los Angeles to attend to some family matters so she will have to stay in her unfinished state a while longer.
Ballerina 31 start / oil on linen / 24 x 18
To keep myself grounded and occupied in quiet moments, I purchased a used copy of Ray McMullens definitive biography (written in 1984) of Edgar Degas to read and absorb - Degas: His Life, Times and Work.

I would also like to take a moment to thank everyone that follows my blog, reads my thoughts and comments on my artistic endeavors. I value each person that takes a peak and each person that responds. You all leave deep impressions on my heart and I am so grateful to you all.


14 comments:

  1. My dear Susan, your blog brings joy to all your readers. I thank you for posting your fabulous art, with dashes of scintillating commentary.
    The Whistler portrait is so handsome. It reminds me of a young Elliot Gould, for some reason.
    Your drawing of Jeff is wonderful - love the 7/8 profile, with the touches of white graphite. But disappointed there are no dogs, parrots or ponies!!! :)
    For some reason, the ballerina seems to me to reflect you right now, in the midst of family drama. I hope all is cleared up soon.
    Kathryn XX

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    1. Thank you so much, Kathryn - you always raise my spirits and, after a very harrowing time in LA, I really needed a lift. The drama has subsided somewhat but I have no doubt it is not completely over yet. :( Seeing your words made me happy.

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  2. Jeff is neat both ways but more fleshed out in the toned paper drawing. The Whistler is fabulous - I felt he was looking right at ME and no one else...and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the ballerina. Even unfinished she speaks to me so I cant wait to see her finished. Hope the drama settles into something less so and get you back at the easel. As for you saying thank you...
    I THANK YOU for sharing your art and thoughts. It is always a pleasure to visit and I get inspired by what you do.

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    1. I am really enjoying the toned paper with white highlights. It seems I have another tool with which to try and convert understanding of the human model to lines on paper! So glad you like Whistler - he was a quick study with limited palette on cardboard - which I love to paint on! My ballerina awaits me but so far I have not been in the mood to approach her. Thank you as always for your lovely words.

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  3. I love the people that come to life through your pencils and brushes! And I'm pleased to see a ballerine appear again! I hope the family matters are over soon.

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    1. Thank you, Judy. I feel like its been such a long time since I seriously painted. I must settle down my life to I can get back to what I love the most!

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  4. Hey Susan, je portretten zien er weer heel realistisch uit !
    De ballerina is nu al mooi, ze zit geduldig te wachten tot alles weer in orde komt...
    groetjes,
    Simonne

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    1. You made me laugh, Simmone! Yes, the ballerina will wait until the time ti right!

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  5. Well we wouldn't follow if you weren't such a warm and talented person. As always I am in awe of your work. Stunning! :0)

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    1. I am having such a great time with these life sessions but it may soon be time to focus on getting a paint brush back in hand!

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  6. I LOVE the Whistler portrait! FANTASTIC piece!! Jeff is the perfect model...you painted the glasses so well and of course, the ballerina!!! LOVE her already..she made me smile when I scrolled down..I'm looking forward to seeing her finished...
    It's always a pleasure visiting you, Susan..and I hope everything goes well!!!! Stay safe, my friend!!!!

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    1. Thank you so much, Hilda. I am pleased with Whistler as well - he has a very soulful face!

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Your comments are welcome and brighten my day!