Where was I?

I recently came across this drawing from six years ago. I remember it being primarily a value experiment. That it succeeds on some level is surprising considering I didn't fully understand what was happening at the time.

Standing Nude, oil pastel on toned paper
14" X 9", 2012

Lost

After years of painting the nude in oils I have begun seeing results that approach my expectations. One might think I would feel a sense of accomplishment, maybe even of having arrived. Instead, I feel lost - utterly lost.

Nude, oil on canvas, 18" X 14", 2018

Body Art

I have drawn and painted scores of models over the years. Early on it was rare to see tattoos. Now body art is quite common. Surface designs add a level of complexity to rendering the figure and my default habit has been to ignore them. I am just starting to key into how important these markers can be in capturing a model's true self.

Wayne, oil pastel on toned paper, 9" X 8 1/2", 2018

Have At It

There is no better place than a single long pose figure session to let loose on a painting - to have at it. If things go well, great. If not, there is always the next time. A live figure environment generates palpable energy, just tap it.

Nude, oil on canvas, 12" X 14", 2018