I've wanted to do a big abstract figure for a long time. Last week I finally decided to tackle it. As I was looking for a reference photo I came across this of my granddaughter Elena. Her pose called to me ...comfy and totally absorbed. I can't recall why she was wearing her
cheongsam... sometimes you just don't need a reason to put on your special souvenir.
As you can see this painting was not about replicating the features or the outfit or the setting. The photo was strictly a reference for post and posture....and the feeling I got from it.
I used three tools: a big stubby round (see below--great for covering large areas, blending edges, getting circular texture)....a 3" good quality house painting brush.....and a palette knife.
There are a zillion layers on this canvas. If you click on it you may be able to see some of the texture. I purposely started with an old painting I'd never finished. Also, I chose acrylic rather than oil because it allows me to get a lot of layering done in a much shorter time. I used gel medium to help extend the paint for big areas of negative space.
Finally - our empty wall will have something on it!
