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Friday, May 27, 2011

Treasure Map value study, imagination, and Kafka

"Treasure Map" value study, 8x10 acrylics on canvas. Value study for Daily Paintworks values challenge. I started this in alizarin crimson, but found it too intense, then switched to violet oxide, which I've used before in underpaintings. There are still traces of aliziran on face and hands.

This composition will be developed with more detail, then used as an underpainting and I'll glaze over it in acrylics.

Many times when I do such paintings, people ask me where I get my ideas. I did a post last year on this blog about stretching your imagination. I believe that imagination is a skill, and just like other aspects of art, it can be cultivated and developed.

That, and I'll leave you with a quote from Franz Kafka: "You do not need to leave your room. Remain sitting at your table and listen. Do not even listen, simply wait, be quiet still and solitary. The world will freely offer itself to you to be unmasked, it has no choice, it will roll in ecstasy at your feet."


4 comments:

Margo said...

I love this start to a future painting. And thanks for sharing that quote, I like it very much.

Kim Vanlandingham said...

Can't wait to see the final painting. I think this looks great so far!!!

Rick OzTown said...

Enjoyed the Kafka!

Unknown said...

The young man's expression and gesture are endearing. You captured them well. Miss you.