Oil Pastel...WIP portrait

[Dyin]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Jul-2003/19147-Teresa_step_one_with_ref.jpg

This is what I've been working on...as I've said, I'm really a slow worker..so will be a bit before it's done still...but I have one from where I left off today too and a detail of the head...

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Jul-2003/19147-Teresa,_shirt_done.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/10-Jul-2003/19147-CU_Ts_face.jpg

This is with Sennelier OPs on Tiziano Fabriano 12x17...I really, REALLY wanted to use the gold metallic OP for the glasses...but I didn't and I think they came out pretty good! This was really hard to sketch...everything is foreshortened I think...and her hair had been shaved above her ears and was growing out and it makes the hair seem too far to the left...but it's dead on. I had a clear plastic grid I made that I would hold over the sketch (a smaller one for the photo) to make sure it was all right. I've never done anything in this bright a light before...and I'm playing with temperatures of color, or trying to. There are no details on her hands, just light and dark highlights and I had a heck of a time figuring out what was what...she's cupping one hand in another...for awhile I thought the fingers were laced. And boy...I'd NEVER done a face in this position...the photo wasn't a lot of help...luckily I took the shot and it helps to picture it in my mind. Anyways...didn't mean to ramble on...just watch all of you put in SO many gorgeous pieces to my one or two and wanted to join in the fun.

[soap]

WOW - how brave of you! What a wonderful painting you have already. Great job. Looking forward to more.
Watch out in the ear area! Something seems odd there.

Are you going to post this in the portraiture forum as well?

[Smudger]

wow! it's going to be a stunner

[Mo.]

Oh My Sue.... You've set yourself a hard one here.... this is going to be an interesting WIP. You are doing great so far.

I think those glasses have come out pretty good too, like the way the light is catching on the rim there..... Sue I take my time too when painting seriously, also I'm finding that working with OP's is much slower for me, takes me twice as long.....


Looking forward to more.

Cheers,
Mo.

[Kathryn Wilson]

Dyin: You certainly did pick a difficult subject to do! But it is fun to work on something stretching yourself - quite a challenge.

So far, so good - the glasses look great. I agree with Soap about the ear area.

Can't wait to see more.

[Dyin]

Thanks, Sophie, 'big' Smudger & Mo...I agree on the ear area...I'll have to figure out a way to see exactly what I'm looking at...can't even see that angle of my ear in a mirror and the sun hitting it at that angle, on that pale (Alaskan) skin, shines a little more that other friend's who are sporting summer tans lol! But that's part of the challenge of this piece. Mo, I'm really glad to hear I'm not alone on slow...the OPs take longer but part of that is because they're still pretty new to us...I keep finding new ways of doing things. The Senneliers are a whole different ballgame than the Caran d'Ache, but very lucsious pigments in them. I'm finding I'm exploring color way more than I did with other mediums since I'm not mixing on a pallette. I think I've barely begun to see what they'll do.
Sophie, I was hesitant to post in another forum as they say not to spread your stuff around when you upload...maybe I should just post with a link to this thread?
Thanks for your input, all...really makes it more fun for me...

[Artaholic]

This is going to be great I like the subject. Nice to have something that isn't so posed looking. You are doing a nice job.

Gerry

[Dyin]

Thanks, Gerry...I actually pulled this one second still out of some video footage I took...after a day of a camera in their face people tend to forget it's there and you can find some good unposed pics...shoot, even my dog poses when the regular camera comes out lol!

[BTDogMom]

OMG!!! This is looking WONDERFUL!!!Gorgeous hair!:clap: :clap:

[Cindy Aspden]

Sue, this is looking awesome. Earlier, you said that her hair looks too far to the right - disagree. You have done an excellent job of getting it bang on I think. In fact your rendering of the hair is beautiful! I love the way you did the glasses and the little bridge piece does show and looks good! I love the tones you have acheived in her skin! So pretty! Can't wait to see the arm in the light! Sue, this is wonderful! Thanks for FINALLY posting your progress. :D

I just ran out to play with my sunglasses, with my head tipped down, standing in a mirror . What I saw, was(AAACK! Bed Head! - no seriously) more of my ear than the actual arm of the glasses. Now, even if the glasses arm was thicker than mine, I would still probably see about the same amount of ear as the thickness of the arm. I'm just wondering if the brightness of the day made her ear blend in and appear to be the arm of the glasses. Is this understandable?
shoot, even my dog poses when the regular camera comes out lol! too bad he's so darn hairy, could figure this ear thing out in no time! LOL

cindy

[Dyin]

Thanks...BTDogMom! Appreciate you taking the time to look and comment...

Cindy...you crack me up! How did you see the right angle??? I've tried with 3 mirrors and can't get it lol! Nope...in the original, because she's at a slight angle to us, you see more ear than earpiece. But, I do have the curve wrong on the earpiece and had planned on going back to it...that will help...think it's a touch too flat and needs some shadowing before the rise of the curve. in the ref pic you're seeing part of the top of the ear and part of the lower lobe and a big sunglare.
I'm itching to get to the sunlit skin too, but I have a certain progression going...need to do the top part of her jeans first...easier to keep track of values that way...but being lazy so far today....someone whom I won't mention (Craig) inspired me to stay up past my bedtime and experiment with clouds...think I'll wait for the next one til he does his demo lol! OPs are not as condusive to clouds as soft pastel or paint even.
btw, Cindy...was the bed hair spaghetti-ish?...LOL! Mine sorta looks like limp noodles today....

[nougat]

This is looking great!!
What techniques are you using - it looks very smooth!! Also how are you going to fix that earpiece?? I find oil pastel very difficult to correct.

n

[MarciaJane]

This is looking really great so far. Can't wait to see it finished!!

Marcia

[Dyin]

Thanks, Marcia and Nougat...Been working on the ear a little...I have a clear plastic stick with a rubber nub on the end...it's really for pushing cuticles back. So it's sort of my color shaper...I can do the tiniest details with that, it has a sharp edge and a flat surface too. I use cotton swabs with the neopastels but the Senneliers just soak up into it, so for them I have a small hard bristle acrylic brush and brush it into shape over the side of the oil pastel...that way I can add tiny hints of color, sort of like a glaze. I have Prismacolor pencils too, but I try to only use them occasionally as shapers to show an underneath color of laid down color...they pick up more than they leave. I was really tempted to use them for the glasses but the shaper did well. I find I can correct just about anything with the OPs. You can use a pallette knife and razor to scrape if layers get too thick, and the lights are really pretty opaque and cover nicely. I try to use a light touch so I don't have to scrape. I re-defined the curve and lightly went over the back of the earpiece with a light gray to kick it back a little and got closer on the shape of the ear...but leaving it for now until I have more skin to compare to.

[meowmeow]

Wow! What a difficult pose..and hairdo! And you seem to be handling it extremely well. Excellent job so far!

Sandy

[Dyin]

Thanks, Sandy....this time I REALLY am going to leave the ear alone for awhile...

[bnoonan]

Dyin - you're just trying to knock me out of my chair - aren't you??? Could you have picked a more difficult angle with foreshortening? I think not!

Excellent job and challenge all at the same time. Love the way you have blocked in your shapes and the highlights/darks in the hair are coming along nicely.

Without a larger photo of the original, I'm not certain but I think I have to say the hair is out a bit too far on their left side. Shoot this is difficult to describe but do me a favor and find the highest point on the head and draw a vertical line down. I just think it's a tad bit out - but it's difficult to say with the unusual angle, hair and lighting.

You go and keep taking your time but do let us see the progress - I'm especially interested in your work.

Oh - now.... where in Alaska? I think you said you live in the SW but I spent so much time in the north I'm curious.


PS: Cindy wins an award for trying to duplicate the pose and angle. How do you do that???? Barb:clap: :clap: :clap:

[Dyin]

Ha...I feel like I'm livin in the past here! I now live in southeast Idaho...but lived in Fairbanks Alaska full time through most of the 80's and the beginning of the 90's, before that southern Florida and spent 5 years in New Mexico before moving here (worked in Alaska those summers tho.) Where up north???
Hey...I measured...it's perfect...perhaps it's because we were out riding our scoots at about 100 mph before then, what with the shaved sides and the poofiness falling to the side, that's what she looked like. And I learned, don't try to adjust too much or it looks even worse. As it is I did take the braided part just a touch to the right, but the outside edges are dead on. I've waited on doing this for 3 years...just didn't feel I could handle all the foreshortning, hair etc...still not sure I can...but think I can fake it!! Thanks for your encouragement!

[Dima]

Hello Dyin, I see your name is Sue and that sounds alot better to my ears than Dyin so I am asking permission to call you Sue.
(my name will remain Dick though, sorry can't be helped)

This looks great and I am eager to see where you're taking this. I like the colours you've used.
BTW the tiziano paper also has a nice and delicate colour.
About the ear I think when you let the top of the ear go over the arm of the glasses it might look allright.
Cannot compare to the ref. pic as it is to small on screen.
Awaiting the next stage,

Dick

[Dyin]

Yep, Dick, that's my name and you're welcome to it...but think that song's been done lol! I like the color of the paper too, but it's more to have a toned ground...I'm no good at leaving parts unfinished tho I admire that in other's work. I really want her to end up being 'lost' in the middle of nowhere, mentally I mean, but want to give that feeling. I have miles to go to get where I want with my work but trying to evoke moods right now...thanks for your encouragement...
Sue

[Dark_Shades]

well lol, Id been dying to comment on this thread...... couldnt before now, coz of computer probs.........
Lol Dick, I too have probs with Dyin's name...... Sue is so much nicer :)

........ love what you have here...... and cant wait to see more........ my favourite parts are the glasses and spots of sunlight on the face......... the hair is great too...... lol and glad you explained, the erm, weirdness of it lol....... very difficult pose...... I was trying to look at the photo, and wondered if part of it was the back and not infact the ear?

...... anways good work......... cant wait for more

[Dyin]

Thanks for looking, D_S, nope...studied that pic til my eyes crossed, but not the back...but I think I have it solved...am waiting to get that right arm in for comparison...worked with the hair behind her ear...well, actually got rid of it...there's another annoying blob of light back there too...I think I'm happy with that too, but I always do lots of little adjustments at the end. I'm really glad you have favorite parts! I just got the upper part of the jeans done and am ready to do the rest of the left arm...pretty excited about that...I figure the hands are going to be really hard and if I define one the other will go better...Hope that puter is done giving you fits...I just had to replace my hard drive on mine...

[bnoonan]

Hey Sue,
YOu asked about Alaska.... I lived there 4 summers. One in Kotzebue, one in Ketchikan and two on St. Paul Island (The Pribilofs). Loved each and every moment in that glorious state - though again, it was during the extended daylight hours.

Get working on that piece - I can't wait to see more of it. Love the idea of 4 wheeling and what it does to your hair.

Barb

[Dyin]

Barb, ahem...TWO wheeling...:cool: Were you working the fish camps??? I never made it to southeast AK...it's scrumptious up in those areas tho.
I've been working on it...wasted a day on the ear and hair and playing with the 'background'...essentially I want just plain white wall behind her and a white step and ground...but of course we're talking shades of white according to color temps...more greyish pink white behind her to kick it back, yellowish white for the flat surfaces and whiter pink white for the closest facing step. I really want her to look isolated in the middle of 'nothing'. Got the belt done, the top of the jeans and just blocked in the lower part of her left arm and hand...wow..I can't imagine just using the stock flesh colors...they are unnaturally bright...I lay down the red, yellow and white based tones and then put in my blues, then reds, then over with the redder skin tone and then final blue and red...right now it's sitting there screaming...BAD FLESH TONES lol! I'm going to block in the other arm next now that I have the hands/fingers sorted out so I can fine tune them together...then I'll do a progress update... I'll take a pic of the blocked in process with the stock flesh tones and post it then too...sort of a what NOT to do lol! I'm really getting excited doing the flesh again...so maybe won't be too slow at it...the fastest OPist in the west...NOT!!!

[Dyin]

this is just blocked in...don't have the right tones for the flesh colors so have to refine them still...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/13-Jul-2003/19147-Cnv0119.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/13-Jul-2003/19147-Cnv0120.jpg

still have more defining to do too, but really happy to have it blocked in.

[Cindy Aspden]

YES! YES! YES! I love it!!!:clap: :clap: :clap:

[Dyin]

Hey Cindy...hoppin around the forums today??? How's the self portraits coming? Thanks for checking out my update...;)

[bnoonan]

Sue this is looking good - not sure why you are so unhappy about the colors but then again I always find them different in real life than the photos.

Something that totally helps me and is recommended by my teachers, is to block in the colors of the largest areas first -ie the background, and then play the colors of the piece on them. How they react with those colors will tell you what to use for skin - hey Just telling you what works best for me.

Never did the fish camps in AK - tourism. B

[Dyin]

Hey, Barb...good idea about the background, I'd just decided I needed to do more on that before I decide on the skin tone...I'm trying to use my own skin tone as a comparison as I know if I just copied the photo it'd be greyish toned. The straight out of the box skin tones look to me like fake tans look, close but not real. Somewhere between the two is what I'm looking for...

ah tourism...the best way to do Alaska...all fun and no work! Lots of exercise batting skeeters tho!

Thanks for keeping an eye on me...:D, I appreciate the tips!

[Mo.]

Looking really good Sue, I have no problems here with your skin tones either, they look fine to me... I see you sorted out the ear and the arm of the glasses , that area looks really good now.
I really like the shape of the arms too, great job there, great job on all so far....question for you, are you having problems using OP's in this hot weather? I'm finding I canot paint for long with them before they start melting, have to keep putting the painting in the fridge, and sit the op's in a cool bag with iced cooling bags... such a pain, also they are taking ages to harden, any tips for this?

Mo.

[Dyin]

Mo...thanks SO much for saying that about the ear and the glasses...you know how it is when you keep messing with the same thing...after awhile you lose perspective.
It's really strange...I am not having problems with the OPs...I have yet to ever put one in the fridge, or pastels on ice...we're in the 100's, I have AC but it still can get up to 82° inside. And I have a little warmer area in the slideout. I think the acrylics slow down the drying time though...when I did that Mayan project I had a heck of a time with the drying...it had an acrylic gesso on it. I've been really surprised on this Fabriano...I expect a spot to be still workable and see it's already hardened some...I do notice that the pastels are stickier towards the end of a session but that's about it. I have one color tho...the yellow toned flesh color that is sticky all the time...it wants to lay down blobs, so I use my rubber tool to apply it. Which brand are you working with? I'm using the Senneliers for this one and they are stickyish anyways, maybe I've just adjusted for that...
Really appreciate you taking the time to comment on my WIP...I get so nervous about posting them undone...

[Taminka]

Dyin - this is just gorgeous - the light is amazing :clap: :clap: :clap:

[Dyin]

Thanks Taminka! It's harder to do stark contrast than I thought it would be, but a very good lesson...

[nougat]

Dyin - this is looking great!!! You don't need to worry about the WIP unfinished works - they're super and they're very interesting to watch!!!

n

[soap]

Impressive work. Ear is looking fine now. And don't worry, we love WIP's!! Gives us a change to see into the 'kitchen' and learn how good things are made.

Great job.
(oh and don't worry about cross posting in other forums- that is allowed these days :D)

[Dyin]

Thanks Nougat and Sophie...I'll post it in Portraiture when it's finished...geesh, if you guys are going to be looking in my kitchen I better wash those dishes....

[Mo.]

Hey Sue.... your kitchen sounds like mine... don't worry about the WIP... it's going really well... just remember that folks like to see how others work... this is what WC is all about ... sharing and participating.....I for one would love to see more people sharing their WIP's ...... we are all learning and improving all the time, it's great to learn from others and increase our knowledge......there isn't an artist alive who will say they know it all (well some maybe, but they know they don't) :D

So Kudos to you.... keep at it girl.... you are doing fine.

Mo.

[Dyin]

Hey, Mo...thanks...I think we kind of hold each other up sometimes too ;)
yeah, I bet if we took a poll...housework or art...:evil:... well, we know our priorities!
Thanks so much for the encouragement, it helps immeasureably!!!

[Mo.]

Errrr ummm what's housework? Can't find that in my dictionary. :D:evil: :D :D ... you go girl!

[Cindy Aspden]

tap, tap, tap (that would be my foot on the floor while I portrait pose waiting for more progress here!) It's been a whole day and nothing! NOTHING! Where's the service in this thread anyway!

[Dyin]

hah, you're just trying to goad me after my 'foxy' comment on YOUR thread....just did background today...Barb told me it would help determine my skin tones and she is soooo right, so hold your horses, or foxes....snork!

[Cindy Aspden]

Fine then! That is so true about the background! I would never have guessed that until I did David. When I put the dark value in behind him, I had to back darken every thing on him. If I hadn't, he would have looked like he was pasted on. Not only that, but remember that sunflower I have told you about. I totally dulled it but using the wrong background. Good plan there Sue! I can't wait to see your progress. I am so glad you are doing the WIP. Golly Sue, I remember just a month ago, I didn't even know what WIP meant. ooowee, we've come a long way baby!

[Dyin]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Jul-2003/19147-1st_T_w_bckgrnd.jpg

[Dyin]

aaack...was going to preview first lol! ok...here's close ups of the arm details and what it should look like in a finished area...

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Jul-2003/19147-1st_t_shot_w_bkgrnd_CU.jpg

and this is just to show the arms a bit better....

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Jul-2003/19147-cu_arms_wo_bracelets.jpg

when it's all said and done I want the back wall to appear white...but a warm white. I will have a bit lighter of the same tone on the front of the step to bring it closer (I hope). And a yellow bright white on the flat areas....I'm adding about 5 colors besides white in a scumble pattern and then I'm burnishing it in. I think it gives it interest. I want nothing else but her and her shadow in this and that's a lot of wall. I'm really pretty happy with the arms...I thought I might have to retouch them after I got more background in. I still need to put the two bracelets on...but so far I'm happy with this....

[Kathryn Wilson]

Hi Dyin in Idaho - LOL. The back wall is looking great - what will happen when you burnish it?

:cat:

[Dyin]

thanks Kyle...it's already burnished (back of a soup spoon)...it just smooths it out but doesn't really blend it too much...I use a rubber tip cuticle pusher for blending it too...I do it in a circular pattern....it gives a real nice rich sheen to it...like Dima said...sort of like burnishing oil into wood...it richens it.

[Mo.]

Background is looking great Sue... a lot of work gone on there, it's a tedious job I know...... it enchances the skin tones wonderfully well.... It's good to hear that you are pleased with it too....and so you should be. :)

Mo.

[Dyin]

Hey Mo...thanks! I must have went through 10 shades of that combination before I got what I wanted lol! I can't believe how much all of you here have helped my work...I have worked in almost a total vacuum for years...feedback and critique really makes a huge difference.

[christmascarolnz]

Hi Sue. Your painting is looking great. I read in your early post with this about the angle that you are viewing the head from. It's actually quite refreshing to not have to paint the eyes, nose and lips in too much detail isn't it? I found with my soldier painting it actually made things so much easier and you could focus on the other stuff in the painting for a change....don't you reckon?
I am looking forward to seeing this finished as well. I really like the way the arms and hands are rendered.
Keep it up girl.
Cheers,
Carol

[Gilberte]

Just dropped in by accident ... NO regrets AT ALL .............
most wonderful !

[Smudger]

Wonderful Work:clap: :clap:

I'm Dyin to see it finished! (sorry couldn't resist it):D

[Dyin]

Hey Carol...haven't seen you much lately...bout time to see what YOU'RE working on!!! Actually, this was a thousand times harder...since it's all in shadow it was hard to see the subtle bone and muscle formation...but without it it wouldn't look right...I got it close and then just went with what 'felt' right...but my arms felt like what you said about the soldier's face...so much easier to do and then go on to other things....so I do know the feeling...
Gilberte...thank you very much! Dropping in by accident...I found myself on a thread in Oil Painting the same way lol!
Smudge...me too lol!!!!
Thanks for all your kind words...

[nougat]

This is great!! Its coming along really well! Thanks for all the info on burnishing I've never tried that or any thing else!! with OPs - I just um rub them on!!

n

[Dyin]

Thanks Nougat! You can do all sorts of things with the OPs...I use an acrylic brush a lot too..have some other ideas I want to try too!

[Kathryn Wilson]

Dyin! Help . . . I need some hand-holding . . . working on an OP using W&N Medium. Will post WIP later on tonight when the DH comes home.

When I get done with the medium and it dries (maybe) can I go over the top of the color for more detail? Ohhhh . . . I wish you were here - LOL.

Interesting effects between Turpenoid and the Medium. Working on Sennelier pastel paper/board.


:eek:

[Dyin]

PM me, k?....not that I really know that much, still learnig tons...but I'm pretty good at hand holding!!!! That W&N sure does slip that OP around doesn't it:evil:

[nougat]

!!!!!!

What for/ how do you use a brush???

and please tell me more about that medium!!!!!


n

[Kathryn Wilson]

Hi Nougat: Great seeing you in here. The medium is to soften and spread out the OP's - I think I like it better than Turpenoid which does the same thing, but I think it dulls the colors (which is good in some instances).

Will post a WIP later this evening.

:D

[Dyin]

Nougat...have you checked out the Oil Pastel sticky???? There is TONS of good information there on OPs...Dima started the thread...I learned things from him and from Mo too, who is really good with them too...I use a brush (a good semi-stiff acrylic brush) for shading real delicate areas and for stippling. I brush the brush across the edge of the color I want and get a nice fine edge...it's only good for one or two strokes but with a gentle touch it works very well. I just keep loading the brush...it's very much like dry brushing. What's nice about it is that you can layer so that underneath colors still show through, like a glaze. You can also brush yet another color over it and they ALL show if you do it with a light touch. I'm still learning tons with these OPs...try anything you can think of...they seem to be so versatile! You're welcome to PM me anytime if you want, too! Just love seeing you excited about them!

[BTDogMom]

WOW!! This is truly coming along beautifully - her ear looks much better - and her hands look WONDERFUL!!! Excellent work! :D:clap: :clap:

[Dyin]

Thanks BT!

[nougat]

thanks Dyin and Kyle. I will look at that sticky as soon as I get a moment...

Thanks for the info on how you use the brush... unfortunately I tend to be HEAVY-handed....I really can't see myself gently brushing on layers....but the effect iis lovely so maybe I'll give it a go!!

n:)

[fugitive]

Yes, ambitious project ya got goin there. Is this for someone, if not, you could make the hair more natural, so folks eyes aren't trying to figure out whats going on with the hair.
Idaho, hmmmmmmmm. a neighbor.
Looking good so far.

[Dyin]

Thanks, fugitive...well, it's of my 'adopted' kid who is also an artist and will be sure to want to see it as is, as she loves this pose. Actually, as weird as it is, I like the hair...but I've memories attached...the first french braid she ever had and I did it...looked better at the beginning of the day lol! She justs wants a copy of it tho, we'll see how it turns out when all is said and done...then maybe good for show...thanks for dropping in!

[angeline]

I have been following this thread with interest and thought I must comment.......having played a bit with op's i am in awe of all of you who do such wonderful pictures.....keep at it its brilliant.....and thank's for sharing.

[soap]

Yes, I agree, this is a pretty good painting. When is the next update?

[fugitive]

Sue, OT, can you point me to that thread where folks are posting their photos and talking?

[Dyin]

fugitive...it's called Just for fun...
http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=81755

thanks Angeline....aha!!! you do OPs!!!! Would love to see....

Sophie...you snuck in on me! Hopefully tomorrow...I want to finish part of the shadow and do a bit more of the jeans...I think you do a better WIP than I do...you get the stages well...mine just shows more finished areas...so I'm watching closely on yours too!

[soap]

Well it is nice to see how people paint in a different way. Some like yourself, and Smudge for instance, paint a area and completely finish it, others, like me work on the whole all the time.
I cannot finish a particular part because the risk that a 'perfect eye' end up in the wrong place is too large. An I am hopeless (as you could see) in a good drawing to start off with......:D

[Dyin]

It is interesting....I think a lot has to do with your life classes...you've learned to get a lot done in a limited period. I think way ahead doing it that way, but my ideas aren't always right and have to go back and work things to make them match. I'm the exact opposite...if I do it your way then everything is out of proportion...I learned to do the sketch and tend to get off without it...but boy...you are SOOOOO much quicker your way...and just because it's quicker doesn't mean any quality is lost! If I hurry, it looks it lol! But I'm going to try to approach things a little bit differently as I go....I was quicker with soft pastels...seems easier to block and work quickly...but my worst enemy is I'm a rest and drag kinda girl...right through a perfect part, and that's even with an easel...and even worse...I'll do it in a dark area and before I realize it I've rested and dragged the dark right through a light area...this is a much safer way of working!

[Dyin]

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/18-Jul-2003/19147-T_w_step_shadow.jpg

sorry this is cocked...Soap was so fast on her WIP, made me feel bad for taking up so much time with mine...still not any faster but I did get a bit further....still a little tweaking to do on the wall and the shadow but will wait til I get the last at the bottom...will finish left leg, then bracelets next for a break, I wish I'd gotten a better pic but forgot to charge the digi batteries and barely sqeezed this out...questions...is the shadow believeable so far??? Does the stupid friggin step look like a step??? I made the front a little more intense to bring it forward from the rear wall and I went crazy trying to get the right combination for the top of the step...you'd think it'd be easy...I sure thought so, but it was either too white or too pink toned or too shadowed to make it recede...in the ref it's just a blank strip and I tried to give it depth but too dark in the back darkens the whole value and white is totally too glaring and abrubt for any shading...think cuz it's so narrow...and the shadow threw off the proportion of it...I measured and it was exact on both ends but looked wider under the shadow...anyway, I finally put on white and then super lightly glazed over it with a milk yellow...I tried that in the beginning and it oranged it out...NOT! but at the end I had more purple than rose and it served to take the white glare away and soften the darker purple towards the rear (the glaze with complementary thing)...you guys who do buildings...any suggestions on how to make this process easier???

[Kathryn Wilson]

I think is coming along splendidly - yes, the step looks like a step!

One little thought to make on the masonry (is it a stone wall) - in my mind I would think the wall on the right would be lighter than on the left because that is your source of light - stone bounces/reflects light. Does this make sense?

This is such a beautiful job - wish I could be that detailed, but that's not my way of working. Loosey, goosey - that's me.

:clap: :clap: :clap:

[Mo.]

Sue... don't worry about being slow, you work at your speed, don't forget OP's are slower to work with than soft pastels... that's what is so frustrating about them, you need to rest them from time to time..

To answer your questions... Hah I can feel your frustration too. :D

The shadow is brilliant... you could not have done this better in my opinion....as to the 'stupid friggin step' :D..... to me it looks like a bar... okay before you hold your hands up in despair... I've checked back on the ref pic..which is very light, the step in the ref doesn't show up so good either..... suggestion... why not shorten the step... i.e. not the full width of the paper... I know you are still working on this, but if it was not so long you could then play with the perspective more... .. I also think you need to put some texture there... . the underside of the step will be darker than the top... so bear this in mind...especially as you have that gorgeous shadow there... as for the rest it's humming... you are painting a master here... keep going girl!

Mo.

[Dyin]

that's what it is now...didn't want it to be a peeling ugly bridge with all those horizontal lines....I just went and looked at painting...it's the same light and intensity as the left...but looking at this photo you wouldn't ever know that...not sure why it shows up dark like that...maybe the angle I shot it??? It really does look dark in this photo...hey, loosey goosey is nice...speaking of, Miss Goose...where's the update on the grapes?

[Bobbie]

What an incredible piece! Would love to see more of your work.

[Dyin]

Mo, we cross posted, kind of....I wish it was a FULLY STOCKED bar lol!!! Yeah, had nice texture going but lost it on the last step...you're right. Origanally this was cropped closer to the figure...there'd be a good inch left out on the left then, but see, I have a precut matt that will fit this perfect...so I thought I'd lengthen it...in the original pic it goes on of course. I'll have to think about that while I work on the rest...I'm not sure what you meant by 'the underside of the step'....do you mean the front of the step darkens towards the bottom? Or do you mean it's darker than the wall...I'm thinking you mean the first...geez, Mo...a master? :D gotta love my cheering squad!

[Dyin]

Thanks, Bobbie...really appreciate you stopping in and commenting!

[Kathryn Wilson]

Loosey, goosey here - ahhhh, life interrupted art today - had some things to get done and then we had a problem with our DSL line tonight. Will be working on grapes this weekend, on and off, when we are not tearing the deck off our house.

Have a good one!

[Mo.]

Sue.... looking at this some more... yep can't sleep.:D

the friggin step.. does the the edge of the step have a white painted strip? If so... maybe use some artistic license here, and do away with it... I cannot quite be sure if the white strip is the front of the step or the surface of the step, if it's the surface.. i.e. the edge of the step, maybe doing away with this would help, you could then paint the step in a more convincing manner... you don't have to stick that close to the photo... just thought.

Mo.

[Dyin]

I gave up on the photo as a reference almost right away...the trouble really is me on this one. I got it to have depth by gradiating but then the value was too dark...then I had lovely texture and it was too busy...I'm with you...think if I do another area for awhile and go back maybe I'll get it better. Who'd a thought the friggin STEP would be the problem on this piece...at least the ear was understandable!!! I put a hint of a white broken line at the edge to bring it forward and a darker little bit where it meets the back wall...like I said...the only good version I got was the wrong value...sigh. But Mo...we'll persevere and beat these little nuisances...you know, I thought about a wider step at the beginning but decided I liked it being narrow...feelin a bit foolish now lol! Thanks for the encouragement...the answers there and I'll find it by golly!

[soap]

Dyin, don't worry at being slower than my WIP, silly! At least you get a longer thread LOL! Am not sure it is because of my lifeclasses that I work the way I work. I think it is because I am so impatient! Could never work that detailed and precise as you, I would get angry like a little child and start throwing bright red paint at it. I just need to make some more bolder strokes. I once started a still life, and the plan was to make it very precise and detailed, very realistic. I had some bottles and a plant. I started with the bottles, made them all finished, and they looked pretty good. I did the cloth it all stood on. And then I had enough of all that detailed precision work and I could not find the patience anymore. I threw in the plant with bold (shall we say) 'expressionistic' strokes and the whole thing ended up a disaster LOL. I was just never born for this. I am no perfectionist. Suppose OP's is not for me then. Or oil painting - too long waiting for things to dry LOL

Dyin, you are way too modest in your post. What you are doing is creating a STUNNING painting. Really, this is so good! Not only has it the perfect look of a detailed realistic painting, but you are not even copying a photo/life that slavishly. You really managed to get your own 'style' in it, your own ideas. I love it.
The shadow is simply brilliant. I don't agree with someone who suggested to lighten the wall on her (our) right, as you should keep it the way it is, the wall is lighter on the left. The step looks pretty good to me, but listen to Mo's suggestions.
This is going to be one hell of a painting when it's done! Be proud! And try to show it off to the world when you finished it.

[nougat]

Hi Dyin and all

sorry I haven't posted sooner but I've been really busy this week!

I have been looking tho and this painting is going to be spectacular!!!

Soap, don't give up on OPs!! I love them and there's NO WAY I can work in this lovely precise way that Dyin does. I'm too impatient! I just rub them on!! If I leave a painting to be continued you can bet it never will be finished!! That doesn't stop me using oils tho!! I just slap them on too!! :D

n

[Dyin]

Hey, Nougat...isn't it funny how we all find other styles intriguing? That's what makes art fun...all the different approaches...
Soap...you make me blush...thanks for the motivator comment too...I think there are so many talented artists here and I'm so enthusiastic about all the sharing and commaderie (sp?).
Thanks for your wonderful comments...I am really pleased with the figure but backgrounds are so definately my weak spot...I wonder sometimes that we don't all spend so much time learning subjects that backgrounds are hard for most...These OPs have made my confidence level go up...I've known what I wanted to acheive and knew how even, except I could never tame the mediums or get the right light from them...why I love the OPs...the drawbacks for me are few. This whole forum has been a huge support and you have no idea the inspiration your lovely work and others has given me! Sometimes I think how awesome it would be if there was a real life WC gallery...with rooms for different levels of expertise and different mediums...wouldn't it be a fantastic place to walk through? And how fun to see people's work evolve so much! Ok...better get to work!!!!

[Cindy Aspden]

:clap: :clap: :clap: Oh Sue! You have done an incredible job on the shadows - on the step, on her jeans, her arm and hand! Fantastic! Boy, that step thing - glad it's your dilema. But, I know you'll figure it out! You are so very, very talented.

cindy

[Dyin]

Hey, Cindy...I can't wait til you start your figure class...and am hoping you opt for pastels so you can post here too...you'll be passing me by one of these days...never saw anyone learn so fast..

[angeline]

Sue this is looking great........and as you asked yes i have dabbled in op's but only have 30 Caran D'ache........and have only done 2 pics.....one was a 30 min sketch and the other a practise for a soft pastel i sold. but then the oil got sold too! here you go
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/19-Jul-2003/19726-oil_pastel_fruit.jpg

and ...

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/20-Jul-2003/1073-icon15.gif A picture of a nude (http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/19-Jul-2003/19726-Nude.jpg)

[Dyin]

For some reason I'm not getting notices today when people post....almost missed this! I'm betting the nude is the one you sold...yes? It's awesome....fruit is really good too, but fruit is fruit lol! But I love how you got such strength and movement in the nude...I'm thinking you should get out those OPs!!! I think I'm wanting to see MORE!!!!! Thanks for posting these!

[Mo.]

Oooh Hayley... I remember that nude... super stuff...


how's the painting Sue... have you progressed any?... no you haven't ... I know, I know been dead heading and that unmentionable word... :D:D... get to it girl!

[MKathleen]

Hi Sue:
WOW just found your thread your portrait is just going to be fanastic!:clap:
I'll be waiting for the next update I love it!
Best,
Kathy:)

[Dyin]

Thanks, Kathy! No experimenting on this one lol! Took a little detour today but will crack the whip again tomorrow...
best to you 2!
Sue

[Dyin]

Hey...been really fighting with this hot weather and the OPs...but finally got one leg done...and today's 'AHA' was that there are a myriad of shadows within shadows!!!!! Have to stop for the day I think, as it's tickling 100° again...will hit it fresh tomorrow and do the bracelets...oh....this is about the truest color pic I've gotten yet...

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Jul-2003/19147-WIP_T_left_leg_done.jpg

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Jul-2003/19147-CU_leg.jpg

[christmascarolnz]

Dyin your painted hands are so soft and feminine.
How are you going to mount and display this lovely painting when you've finished? and do you need to keep it out of the warmth? I was playing with my pastels in the car yesterday while waiting for my son, and found that in warmth they are quite greasy and easier to use. (Like *duh* to me, they are oil after all) Do they ever set?
Cheers,
Carol
here's a clappy thing for you too...just for you:clap:

[Dyin]

Thanks Carol...I try but there's nowhere not warm these days...it's 109° right now...84° inside lol! I have a lovely precut mat that I determined to use from the beginning...it's hard to describe...it's a dusky dull black with ghost gold in it and I've held it up to the painting and it's really perfect even though it sounds odd, it truly highlights the brightness with out detracting anything...I'm not sure on the frame yet, a gold would set off her hair but want it to be modern due to the subject and don't want to over power the paintig with the frame...open for suggestions!
yep, they love to slip slide in the heat and they don't truly set but they get quite firm, I've dropped finished stuff on it's face and after I got done running around screaming I found that they held up...wouldn't recommend it tho lol!!! What are you working on these days???

[Kathryn Wilson]

Your progess is stunning - that leg is perfect! And, I see the shadows within the shadow - wonderful! If you use the black matt with gold, why not use a plain gold metal frame - very contemporary.


:clap: :clap: :clap:

[Dyin]

A gold plain frame sounds good, Kat! Isn't that so cool about the shadows within shadows? I've come so far from my black is a shadow days lol!!! Hope you're feeling better....hmmm...sure hoping for a posting from you tonight...wink, wink!

[E-J]

Sue, I can't believe I haven't got around to commenting on this one yet. It's going to be gorgeous! Beautiful blending ... looks like an oil painting.

[Dyin]

Thanks E-J...that's a high compliment indeed!!! I totally can not do oils but soooooo love the look! Thanks for looking and commenting!

[Mo.]

Sue.... that's one of the beauties of oil pastels, you can make them look like oils.... this is gobsmacking beautiful... those shadows are absolutely superb, I know what you are going through too at the moment with the heat... not easy... BTW.. there are certain techniques that dry the pastels... in the main using turps.... but they will eventually be so hard that it is dry... a friend of mine still has her cat and dog portrait hanging on her wall that I did about 28 years ago... it's still as fresh as the day I painted it... but she thinks it's marvellous... I cringe every time I see it. :D .. yes it's that awful ...

Btw... frame a plain semi rounded brushed gold frame would look very nice with this... not too wide either.

Looking forward to more of this delicious painting.

Mo.

[Dyin]

geesh...new word for the day....gobsmacking!!!! :D Did you do the pet portrait with turps? Or did it just harden up? Brushed gold sounds good...not sure what you mean by semi-rounded...do you mean a 1/2 round shape on the frame edge? If so, that sounds really nice, I agree, a narrow frame will look best....thanks!!! Btw....I'm doing another one for the Pastel Riot...the house this time....taking a little more time with it but still loose...can't help but be loose with the heat melting everything lol!

[Mo.]

Sue.. which pet portrait?, haven't done a pet portrait in OP's... yes semi round... I'll try and post a pic of what I mean tomorow okay?... BTW... I've been using Gobsmacking now for some time, its an expression used here in Wales for something that's outstanding.... ... my terminology... but it's been catching on amongst folks in WC!... isn't that marvellous! :D

[Dyin]

quote but they will eventually be so hard that it is dry... a friend of mine still has her cat and dog portrait hanging on her wall that I did about 28 years ago...unquote

Mo....are you messing with my head???? I thought this above was an oil pastel...:confused:
Yep...it's marvelous...gobsmacking good in fact...brawhahaha!!!

[christmascarolnz]

What are you working on these days???
I've got a hand holding babie's feet in oil that is in progress. Well, honestly, I haven't done much to it for a few weeks. I must get it finished 'cos I've got another work to do in oils. It's for a lady at church and is a fern frond or 'koru'. I thought I'd do the base in oil and 'play' with a bit of oil pastel on it...but I'm too scared to :eek:
Do you varnish oil pastels?
Cheers,
Carol

[marilyn h]

My gosh! This is so perfect! What detail!! I am so very, very impressed! Just WOW!

[Dyin]

Hi Marilyn...thanks for your kind words!

Carol....that baby one sounds lovely...you can do an oil paint base for the OPs but are not supposed to do the oil over the pastels...because the OPs don't truly dry I think....Dima varnished one but no, you don't usually varnish...but they do best behind glass. I have some W&N fixative...never used it...you have to wait 10 days after it's done...so saving my sandcastle one to try it out on...then will report here...don't be afraid to try the OPs...expect them to be gooey and slidely and hard to handle and then you'll find they're not near as bad as you thought...I think it's just hard when you're expecting them to act like soft pastels...think of it as painting with a small narrow tube of thick oil paint, a little stiffer tho! Hey, if you can bungee jump...you can do OPs!!!!!

[Kathryn Wilson]

Ditto on what Dyin says . . . but don't buy the cheapies - they are not worth the effort and you will be disappointed in how they work. Just buy a few sticks and play and see if they are what you want them to be.

[Cindy Aspden]

Sue, this just keeps getting more and more incredible. You are one brilliant pastel artist! Awesome teacher and explainer too!!
:clap: :clap: :clap:

cindy

[Dyin]

Hey Cindy...you are just so sweet!!! Thanks for stopping in...looking for updates on your portrait drawing in the Drawing forum!!!

[christmascarolnz]

Thanks folks for the advice. I have been buying the Caran... ones as I did buy some cheap ones and they are too hard to use effectively.
Fantastic stuff Dyin.
Carol

[MarciaJane]

Wow Dyin .... this is coming on soooooo good !!

Excellent .... waiting to see the end product !

Marcia









******************************************

Never frown even when you are sad, because you never know who is falling in love with your smile.

******************************************

[Dyin]

Me too!!!! lol....getting so close I can taste it!!! Thanks a bunch for stopping in!!!

[guilliame]

Dyin,i have been following this thread in admiration,i haven't commented before as i'm a newbie to ops and couldn't offer any advice,iv'e been happy just to watch it evolve,looking ,reading and hopefully learning,thanks for sharing it's been interesting,instructive and inspiring,gobsmacked is about right and i'm looking foward so much to seeing it finished it's beautiful:clap: .

[Dyin]

hey...thanks so much Guilliame!!! We're all learning...I got a better way to approach this other leg from MikeN's step by step and it makes it a little easier and quicker too...I really appreciate your kind words and am hoping it will be done soon...thanks again!

[Dyin]

Well...one month later and it's finally done...I don't know which is worse...a blank sheet waiting for you or an unfinished painting. This came out a little dark in the photo...it's actually kind of glaringly bright in real life...anyways, this is it...I've signed it and framing it tomorrow but all comments are surely welcome...thanks for looking one last time!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/11-Aug-2003/19147-Teresa_final.JPG

[Kathryn Wilson]

Congratulations on a job well done - I know how much work you have put into this beautiful painting - you deserve accolades!

:clap: :clap: :clap:

[MKathleen]

Hi Sue:
Wow your painting turned out sooooooo great! Her seated posture looks so natural and not stiff like you sometimes see. The creases and wrinkles in the jeans turned out really nice, and I love the way her hair is falling downward and blowing in the breeze so natural.
Dang girl job well done!:clap:
Best,
Kathy:)

[fugitive]

So it is brighter in real life, I wish I could see it that way. What graphics program do you have, can't you brighten, increase sat or what ever to compensate for what is on the monitor. My digital stuff does look the same, so I don't worry. Great job, now you can rest.

[Dyin]

Hey, thanks for looking Kat, Kathy & Greg!
Greg, I do have a new photo program coming in the mail;) . I did get a little lighter shot of it up on Portrait as a cross-thread...just didn't think of it before I posted this...even so...something gets lost in the translation a bit...I think I'm going to get a professional slide done of it...
Kathy...I've never done so many wrinkles in my life lol! Next painting will not have ONE lol!
Kat...you've been a huge support for me during this long month getting this done and I so appreciate all your help!

[christmascarolnz]

Great painting! I like the colours you've used. I bet to see in 'real life' would be a buzz. I've probably missed it, but what are you going to do with it now? Exhibit? Give it to me??:D
I prefer the freedom of a new canvas as opposed to something that sometimes can turn into a mill stone around my neck!
I've been having a go at a portrait in op's now. I finally dived in head-first and started one. It's more of a painterly look - can't get the same detail. I'll blame you for getting me into it! lol


Take a bow Sue.
Carol

[fugitive]

Is this vs. closer. I enhances a few things in PSP.

[Dyin]

Greg...no, no, no!!! lol! It looks much like the one in Portrait forum...it's just a bit brighter than the one I posted and it's in a whiter pink/red tone rather than this yellow...but thanks for trying!

Carol...you're doing an OP!!! How very cool! Hey...painterly is good...this realistic stuff can drive you bonkers lol!
I want to try entering it in a show, but the one I want is a bit in the future, so for now will just frame it, then get a good slide of it I hope! I can't wait til you post your OP!!!

[soap]

What a stunner. What a pro you are! Gobsmacking! (if I can just 'borrow' Mo's word :D)
Please, please tell me you are going to exhibit it, send it in to an competition, an art magazine, or something! This is too good to just sit on your own walls.

Amazing job and congratulations on finishing it. How do you feel now after a month of hard work? ;)

[nougat]

Well done Sue!!! This painting has turned out to be first class!!!

:clap: :clap:

nadine

[Greeble]

This is so gorgeous. I wish I could see the original!




Jen

[doe]

Excellent! Good luck entering her into shows!

[Kathryn Wilson]

Dyin: I think getting a good slide is a very good idea. If you are going to enter into competition with this you are going to need good slides to send off and I think digicameras, unless they are professional cameras, don't have the resolution you are going to want and a software program can't add what the camera does not see.

When you upload a photo to WC, in order to get it into a smaller format, pixels are eliminated to accomplish that and you do lose color and detail.

[Dyin]

Soap...yep, I do plan on entering this in a show...and I'm pretty tired of working on it, so am glad it's done. I did learn from it...I wanted to have her touch top and bottom of the painting to make her seem 'boxed in' an open space...I'm not sure I had to go to the edges like that though...a little space would not have hurt...I learned a lot about light from doing so many shadows and highlights but was not always able to convey it as well as I'd like and I found it's extremely difficult to do a background the way I did...all in all I'm happy with it and glad I'll carry some lessons on to future work...and it's so cool getting to share it with someone besides just my husband!!! Thanks, Doe, Jen and Nadine!
Kyle...it's funny...even on the lighter jpeg the color is different from side to side...maybe the lighting when I took the photo...because it's really not got a yellowish cast on the left...here's an odd aside about the OP's on this paper...it has aborbed the oil away from the pigment just a little and it gives it minute little cracks in places, like an old oil painting...I kind of like the effect...

[David Dowbyhuz]

Wanted to bring this little beauty to the top for one more go around!

[fugitive]

Iconoclast, hey, where have you been, haven't seen you in many moons?

[Dyin]

Dave you are just so kind and big boost to my morale! Now I'm going to re-direct to YOUR lovely WIP in Animal & Wildlife forum where I'm learning lots!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=122220&goto=newpost

[Striver]

Awesom, enjoyed your wip and comments. Inspiring, thank you for going to print
Regards
Les

[Dyin]

Thanks, Les, really appreciate you stopping by for a look and your kind comments!
Sue

[E-J]

Sue, somehow I missed the finished painting, so sorry for the delay in commenting ... and here's my comment ... WOW!! :)

I love the highly finished look you've achieved with the oil pastel surface, and the convincing effect of light and shadow. Well done :clap:

[meowmeow]

Wow! I must have missed when you finished this. It is gorgeous!
I am always so impressed with your work...especially since I don't use ops myself.
DOn't beat yourself up about how long it takes you Sue. There is nothing wrong with that. Some of us would do well to be more patient and take the time you do.
This was a tough one and you did it proud!

Sandy

[Dyin]

E-J, Sandy...you warm my heart! Thanks for a lovely way to start my day off!!

[angeline]

Sue.........dunno how I missed this.........maybe with work and all...........but it's wonderful! well done!
:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

[Dyin]

Thanks, Haley! I'm sure it was work...just read about your 11 hours and no breaks on a 6 day schedule...whew! I'm amazed you can even find time to visit here!!!

[Luvy]

Wow Dyin I've missed this thread some how. This is beautiful. Love the concrete too. Very very very well done. I'm impressed for sure *S* :clap: :clap: :clap:

(doing cartwheels)

[vrashton]

I really like this, the pose is great and the detail you have managed is terrific. Your oil pastels seem to come out so soft looking.:clap: Wonderful work.
Val

[Dyin]

thanks, Luvy and Val! (and Sophie for including this in your list on the pastel question thread)...very much appreciate you taking the time to look and comment!

[artbabe21]

I've been SO busy in the oil forum I have not come over here to see this gorgeous work....completely brilliant!! :)

I still feel this medium calling to me as I see how hands on (sans brush) I could do MORE with my work!!

[artbabe21]

I've been SO busy in the oil forum I have not come over here to see this gorgeous work....completely brilliant!! :)

I still feel this medium calling to me as I see how hands on (sans brush) I could do MORE with my work!!

Those shadows are the best !!

edit--the post didn't do anything for several minutes so I added something & hit it again....still it was a long while before it came up...so that's why the double post...lol

YOU are an amazing talent!!

[Dyin]

Wow...didn't even get a email notice...this thread's OLD lol! Thanks Cathleen...PM me when you post your next oil..k???