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.
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| Jeff / graphite on cream paper / 24 x 18 |
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| 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!
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| 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.
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| 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.
My dear Susan, your blog brings joy to all your readers. I thank you for posting your fabulous art, with dashes of scintillating commentary.
ReplyDeleteThe 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
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.
DeleteJeff 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...
ReplyDeleteI THANK YOU for sharing your art and thoughts. It is always a pleasure to visit and I get inspired by what you do.
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.
Deleteexcellent susan
ReplyDeleteMany thanks, Ashok.
DeleteI 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.
ReplyDeleteThank 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!
DeleteHey Susan, je portretten zien er weer heel realistisch uit !
ReplyDeleteDe ballerina is nu al mooi, ze zit geduldig te wachten tot alles weer in orde komt...
groetjes,
Simonne
You made me laugh, Simmone! Yes, the ballerina will wait until the time ti right!
DeleteWell 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)
ReplyDeleteI 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!
DeleteI 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...
ReplyDeleteIt's always a pleasure visiting you, Susan..and I hope everything goes well!!!! Stay safe, my friend!!!!
Thank you so much, Hilda. I am pleased with Whistler as well - he has a very soulful face!
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