Untitled (work in progress)
Acrylic on birch panel
8 x 10 inches
Barbara Muir © 2015
I didn't get too far today --what I like aboutpainting on wood is that if I just use a wash
and then sand the wood, the surface sucks the paint in
and insists on the wood texture. That's why I spent time
reinforcing my lights, and moving some borders.
A wonderful artist friend, came to tea and we talked
about painting. She's taking a course with an instructor
who says the subject isn't the point, it's the paint. I know
what he means, but the point for me is capturing
what I love looking at. And light is what gets me.
I'm reading a novel on Edgar Degas and Mary
Cassatt I Always Loved You by Robin Oliviera.
In the book Mary Cassatt and her friend are
talking about painting the old way --
classically -- and the new way -- like Degas.
It's fascinating to me how new the Degas way still is
for so many painters a century plus later. The novel's
a delicious read.
Have a getting-the-light day.
10 comments:
oh this hotel breakfast one is delish! yes I agree somewhat with your friend that the paint is the point. But I also agree that the passion has to be there to paint, and if you paint what you love it shines in your work.
I have jotted down the title of your book, sounds like a goodie, and that I need a trip to the library soon!
Just bought the book, thanks for the recommendation Barbara!
I love your paintings! And, as always, your sentiments.
I ordered some birch panels from Cheap joes ( and they were cheap!) they sent me a free bottle of clear gesso- it worked great! Just sayin....
Looking great. Keep going.
Hi Sally,
I do think the paint is the point in part -- but I hope I don't stop in my tracks and consider whether that's true or not while I'm painting ;-)
I downloaded the book from the library on my iPad. If you do that the library is in your hands full time. Not the same as a paper book I know, but lovely, and no late fees!
XOXOXOXO Barbara
Hi Carol,
I hope you enjoy it. I just started it so I do hope it's good. Miss seeing you.
XOXOXOXO Barbara
Hi Sally Dean,
Thank you so much. I know I could use clear gesso, but it's not what I want. I want the would to bleed through and claim the work. I love what it does. I like the back and forth.
XOXOXOXO Barbara
Hi Karen,
Thanks so much. I was captivated by your last painting. Thank you. I will keep going.
XOXOXOXO Barbara
"the subject isn't the point, it's the paint." Yes, this is something I have to remind myself constantly - that I'm not just making pictures, I'm making PAINTINGS. Looking at your work I can see how much fun you're having with your materials. Thanks for sharing, and keep it up!
Hi Sarah,
I love your paintings. Really I think we can talk ourselves into a bleak corner by not following our guts. I know people who have zero texture in their paintings and the work is beautiful. It's not only
individual to each person, but as I can see on your blog, to each painting.
Your work is beautiful.
Take care,
Barbara
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