Sunday, January 18, 2009

In the works


Gradually growing into larger work, this one is 12 x 16 (in progress) and will be matted at 11 x 15, give or take. Need to decide on a background and I'm not sure how dark I want to go. I like a mid value background so I can play with a cast shadow but a deep color would surely make the white orchids pop!


If you have an opinion, comment and share it. I'd love to hear your ideas.


Did you ever wish you'd stopped sooner? I do...


This isn't exactly what I had in mind. The dark really washed out the colorful whites and made the whole thing flat. What a great learning experience.

4 comments:

Art By Erika said...

Wow this is my most favorite of yours Lee and it's not even done yet! Love the subtle colors that make up the white flowers. I'm absolutely no help here, this is the point where I'm lost regarding background when the piece already looks outstanding! hmmmm...

Lori Andrews said...

Well Lee You've got my vote, THIS IS SPECTACULAR!!! I LOVE IT! I had a hard time with my background too, wasn't sure where to go, although I have to say, I like the light background since you've done such a tremendous job on the petals here!!!

Hillary Miller said...

Go for it Lee! You know you want a colorful background. Okay, maybe I want one! It's beautiful but will really stand out against a middle to dark value, and you really know how to handle those kind of wet into wet areas to keep them soft enough to stay in the background.

Unknown said...

I'm intrigued to see what you go for Lee! I painted one of these orchids a couple of years ago and went for a light blue background - it was probably too insiped and not strong enough. Look forward to the end result!