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

Saturday, April 23, 2016

Back to Steeplechase!

A Daunting Challenge Not Easily Won / 14x18 / oil on masonite

Back to a favorite subject once again. I had a few masonite panels left over from a while ago. I had abandoned them as I did not enjoy painting on their very smooth and slick surface. I love how the texture of linen or canvas grabs the paint as the brush is dragged across the surface. So I put several layers of gesso on the masonite panels and find I like them much more now!

18 comments:

  1. Nice to see you back to steeplechases and ballet again. I only ever paint on canvas since my one attempt on a panel was like skating!

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    1. I agree - very much like ice skating, John! Hope your book editing and your boat are coming along well!

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  2. I LOVE how you "recycled" your masonite boards, Susan :) What a fabulous, action-filled work!! I know nothing about oil painting, but I would think your style definitely needs the rougher surface.
    Kathryn

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    1. Yes, there is something so satisfying about the interplay of a tactile surface and the paintbrush as part of the process. I love it a lot!

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  3. Another fabulous painting. Plump ballerina and slim athletic horse. No one can do what you do, Susan...you make it all believable. Just incredible!!

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    1. You make me smile, Julie - thanks for your support and ongoing encouragement!

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  4. What a brilliant painting my friend. This is perfect. I hope you enjoy your holiday all of you. it sounds fantastic. All the best Susan.
    Vic.

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    1. WE are almost ready for our European adventure and looking forward to it! Many thanks, my friend!

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  5. I often work on a smooth surface and I love it! Mind you, that's mainly because I paint in such detail sometimes! But I now have a beautiful oil primed linen canvas waiting for me to work on for a large Still Life and I'm really looking forward to working on it! It feels lovely!! Your painting is stunning as always. Full of energy!! :0)

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    1. It's all a matter of preference I guess! I love painting on linen as well. I am looking forward to seeing your next still life. I just love the gold fish inside the bubble - what a wonderfully creative work, Sandra!

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  6. There is always such joy and energy in your paintings , they are real stand outs !

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    1. Such a nice comment - many thanks, Jane!

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    1. Thank you, Sue, and many thanks for stopping by my blog and taking the time to leave a comment. That is greatly appreciated!

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  8. I never get tired of your ballerinas or your steeplechase paintings! Love this one..full of beautiful movement!!!!

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    1. I am just about ready to post a few more ballerinas ! Thank you so much for your support, Hilda. It so much to me.

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Your comments are welcome and brighten my day!