Art class comprised a group of retired ladies painting pictures of flowers and cute animals from images on their Ipads. I didn’t expect anything else really. However, the tutor seems to be a very skilled water colourist so I am sure I can learn something from her. She was very excited when I said I would have a go at anything. After explaining the finer points of perspective she put together a still life composition of two pots, a plastic orange and some dead leaves. I spent nearly two hours sketching it and almost lost the will to live.
Why did she bother with the dead leaves? I am sure you were a breath of fresh air to the teacher. It seems tough going in the very first class to spend almost the entire time on one exercise. It can only get better!
ReplyDeleteI was more interested in what was going on outside through the window (the market square).
DeleteMaybe you're just a little rusty and need to just relax and take your time getting back into it. I would love to learn more about watercolors. They seem to have a mind of their own and don't do what I expect them to do!
ReplyDeleteMaybe I'll actually get my paints out next time.
DeleteGlad you didn't succumb to your "end of life" feeling!
ReplyDeleteIt was a bit grim.
DeleteDead leaves, no. And no point in having that cork in the bowl either. Much better to set-up a still life that tells you what's what instantly. A good set-up is half the battle.
ReplyDeleteIt was very uninspiring but I didn't dare interfere with her set-up.
DeleteI think you should have. You can't (or wouldn't want to) paint anything that is uninspiring. It should have had some height contrast too.
DeleteIt is the worst still life set up I have ever seen! Have a look at some of Bonnard's still lifes for inspiration before you go to the next class!
DeleteOh dear, doesn't sound like two hours of fun! Hope things improve
ReplyDeleteIt really was not fun.
DeleteWhy don't you take Rick next time and paint him!
ReplyDeleteHe wouldn't sit still for long enough.
DeleteGive it another chance and if you do not like it do not go, it's the advantage of having the freedom to choose just what you want.
ReplyDeleteI'm hoping that I shall actually learn something from the tutor but I don't think it's going to be a long term thing.
DeleteIn observing that still life arrangement you were honing your powers of concentration and observation. That's got to be a good thing as you resurrect and enhance your artistic talent. If you stick with it I am sure you will learn a lot from your teacher.
ReplyDeleteI hope so, I shall persevere.
DeleteGee, I was just going to say that I loved that little jug (I thought it was yours when I first saw the picture)! Learning how to paint with watercolours (or anything for that matter) is on my list of "things to do when I retire". I put the rest of my family to shame, as they are all very artistic and creative. -Jenn
ReplyDeleteThat jug was incredibly hard to draw accurately.
DeleteOh dear it doesn't sound very inspiring. Hopefully it will improve!
ReplyDeleteI might have to inspire myself. I'm not sure still life is my thing.
DeleteOh Sue - your post did make me laugh this morning, especially the last line. Sadly this is village life I am afraid but everybody means well.
ReplyDeleteI have to say everyone has been incredibly welcoming here.
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