Numbers

I started using a limited palette almost a year ago. Quickly sensing the potential of the method, I dove head first into working as many private and group figure sessions as possible. My reasoning was simple, do more paintings and get better. There is no doubt that progress can only come with practice but volume doesn't necessarily lead to improved results. A number count is far less important than intent and intensity.

Seated Nude, oil on panel mounted linen
5 1/2" X 5 1/2", 2018

The Itty Bitty Trap

A local 6" X 6" exhibition venue plus numerous linen scraps around the studio enticed me to try my hand at small scale figurative work. The experience has been enjoyable, instructive and quite challenging. However, I'm starting to see a down side to going tiny. I find myself obsessing on small details of already itty bitty paintings. I don't want to linger here too long.

Nude Study, oil on panel mounted linen
3 1/2" X 5 ", 2018

The Struggle

After a frustrating session with the pose below, I debated whether to rub off the wet paint and reuse the canvas. I decided to keep the image as a learning tool. While far from successful, there is a vibrancy in the failure. The struggle shows and it matters.

Nude Study, oil on canvas 9" X 11", 2018