Hi!
Sometimes, when I am unsure of my composition just from the tiny thumbnails in my idea book, I make a small but full detailed pencil sketch like this one.
It's easier to erase on a smooth mixed media paper than on a textured painting surface. I put a lot of work into making the 24"x24" linen panel for this, and I want to get it right before I start sketching anything on that surface.
I'm pretty happy with this arrangement of objects and the contrast in values. So the next step will be to draw it again, but life sized on the linen panel before I start the underpainting.
Mama used a lot of pots and pans when she cooked, which is part of the inspiration here. If you smelled another story brewing, you guessed right.
But before I share that, do you have a favorite memory of cooking with someone dear to you?
May I encourage you to seek out opportunities to cook with your children, grandchildren, or nieces and nephews? It will mean more to them down through the years than you might realize.
I'll share more about this piece as it develops. Once the painting is finished, I will set it aside for the solo show, though I might be persuaded to part with the sketch.
We'll see...
In the meantime, the chatter in the trees seems to increase with each passing day.
It's telling us that Spring is on the way.
Jan
P.S. Remember to share your own cooking memories. I'll tell you why another time.
