I studied art at BYU and have always been known as an "artist". I am actually a bit embarrassed by this title because with it comes expectations from others, but art is truly one of my passions and I don't feel complete unless I am expressing myself through painting, photography, etc. I just like to create. However, as a mother of three small children, I have found it difficult to find the time to devote to this part of me. I don't really have a space in my home that can be set aside for this, so I have pretty much just let my painting skills lie dormant for about 6 years. (With the exception of painting every single wall in my house, but that really shouldn't count!)
I thought a lot about this particular goal and I really wanted to paint a painting of my own. However, having not painted in such a long time, I really felt nervous and wasn't sure I was willing to spend the time and money on it and not have it turn out the way I wanted. I was at Michaels one day and saw they were having a stellar deal on canvases and all their paints and felt this was my cue to pick up my paintbrush and go to work. I already knew the look I was going for so the prep wasn't as difficult as I anticipated. With a little bit of encouragement from a friend, a lot of prayer and some nice, long naps from my daughter, I was able to complete my painting in about 2 weeks. I am thrilled how it turned out!
Title: Utah Aspens
Acrylic in the Impasto style
Impasto is a technique used in painting, where paint is laid on an area of the surface (or the entire canvas) very thickly, usually thickly enough that a painting-knife strokes are visible. Paint can also be mixed right on the canvas. When dry, impasto provides texture, the paint appears to be coming out of the canvas.
Canvas prepped with tinted gesso
Rough trunks and leaves are "scrubbed" in
Then a bit of detail is added
Then a glaze is added to mute details. (Helps background stay in the back)
Another layer of trunks and leaves are added
Add some branches and more details
Closest trees get the most detail and the brightest colors
Here it is above my bed. I think it is a bit too small for the space so I am thinking of installing a shelf to have it rest on with a few other small prints.
On to the next goal!
8 comments:
Wow! I am seriously impressed. I am NOT an artist, so even looking at the work in progress, I can't see how you did it (brown lines turn into aspen trunks?). It's beautiful!
That is a gorgeous room, with a crown jewel of a painting. Thank you for showing us the process. I find it fascinating!
I love signs from the universe and thank you for sharing this talent that is a process, but a true talent. I agree that it might be a bit small for the space so your solution will be perfect. But I'm not an expert. Don't you just love a perfect spaces? Your bedroom looks like a refuge from the world! When I visit St Louey, I call a nap in your master suite!
It's wonderful!!! I'm so excited for you and proud of you for doing your painting. I am an 'artist' but I don't paint. I truly admire your skill. And it turned out just beautiful. I hope you'll keep up on your painting.
That is so beautiful! It reminds me of the aspen trees surrounding the old cabin. I love it!
It turned out beautiful and compliments your room so nicely. I liked hearing about the "how" too... not that I would ever try, but it is interesting to hear.
That is so beautiful! I can't paint but I really appreciate those who do!
Oh I love that so much! That is amazing!!!! I'm a tree lover and this picture just speaks to my soul! I'm glad you decided to paint your own, that turned out so great!
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