Saturday, January 4, 2014

GRIEF, 16x12, oil by Sharon Benner



The framed painting was done in pastel several months ago.  I have been studying books on portraiture and figures, trying to teach myself the difficult task of catching a likeness or the gesture of a figure.  The second is my drawing on canvas and the third is my oil painting, painted ala prima in two sessions.  I'll probably play with the face some more.  It is really hard to be satisfied with a likeness and since this is a learning project, I'm not at all afraid to throw it away if I mess it up. 

5 comments:

Unknown said...

I don't think you should throw it away. Even if you are not satisfied, keeping the paintings you feel are not satisfactory helps you to see how you improve as you do more. I really like your figures expressions and shadows. Keep painting figures-practice makes perfect.

Julie Riker said...

I am actually working on a portrait also and struggling with the same issues of capturing a likeness. I am having fun with it though...finding it amazing how even the slightest adjustments of warm and cool can totally change the face. I agree a true learning experience!

Debra Kreiger said...

Awesome to see the process. Learning new things is always a great adventure. You should definitely not throw this out!

Sue Marrazzo Fine Art said...

Keep persevering....it's how we all learn and get better!!!
Kudos to YOU ( ;

Mary Beth Brath said...

Yah - what everyone else said! You are inspiring all of us Sharon. We should always continue to learn and get out of our comfort zone. I love the mood in this painting. It is very strong.