PAINTING from a PHOTOGRAPH

Tropical World - Oil by Karen Roncari

painted edge box canvas,  Tropical World

ARTistically speaking, whether you paint from a live model, a still life setup or on site (plein-air); these methods seem to be aesthetically superior to working from photographs.  However, there happens that certain photo of a subject or composition that inspires us that we simply must use as our "model".  There are numerous painters who have files of various reference materials, I for one.

magazine photo

A good point to keep in mind is to not slavishly copy it.  Determine what feature attracted you to the image, enhancing it to Your pictorial advantage. You can brighten the colors, as I did here, tone them down or even change them.  I took liberty with the background, made birdie more upright & showed more tail feather.   Everyone who draws or paints has the ability to render in their own style, media, colors, size, the list is endless, besides: being Creative makes Art more FUN!!

STEP by STEP in ACRYLICS

I had a sketchy idea 

    of the composition, so quickly blocked it in using a bit of  negative painting.  Although totally enamored with the lillies, the 2 canvases had to be tied together with something less dramatic, while giving the bottom weight and enhancing their delicate beauty.    Patterned cloth, with contrasting colors of those in background and flowers provided the necessary anchor.

When painting wraparound canvas, one must keep the painting going over the edges; so as details progressed, they happened on the sides as well.  

 

LILLYSCAPE

  This particular project has given me unparalleled satisfaction and I had Fun every minute of it.                     

IN THE TWINKLING OF AN EYE

 I have been working on this post over a month...(just not good with words) 

I just did this pastel of a dream I had 37 years ago.  Not many details except that people wearing white are floating upwards to Heaven.  The startling thing about this dream was the realization that I was merely watching the people and 

NOT among  them!!

At that time during my unregenerated life I was presented with the message of the Gospel and simple plan of Salvation. I also learned of how Jesus Christ alone can save us; not merely through good works or because of any particular religion. 

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us"..Titus3:5 

And finally..."we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air." 1Thess 4:17