Spring Contemplation ~ FINISHED

[marieUK]

I have had this picture going round in my head for ages. I think my mind is still writing cheques that my skill cant cash but I can't ignore this any longer. I warn everyone now that there is a very good chance that I will completely ruin this and have to abandon but if I don't try I will never know. This is my initial drawing all ready to transfer to my good paper, if I don't do it now all my courage will fail me. All your help, encouragement and suggestions are very very welcome.

[moolane]

Originally Posted by marieUK

I have had this picture going round in my head for ages. I think my mind is still writing cheques that my skill cant cash but I can't ignore this any longer. I warn everyone now that there is a very good chance that I will completely ruin this and have to abandon but if I don't try I will never know. This is my initial drawing all ready to transfer to my good paper, if I don't do it now all my courage will fail me. All your help, encouragement and suggestions are very very welcome.

I really like this....and I admire your ability to take something from your head and put it on paper!! Looking forward to seeing it as you progress!

[lotsofsmoggies]

Water! Woohoo!! Goodluck

[Lexycat]

Marie, you're great at doing these sort of pieces, I have every confidence in you.....

[johanneL]

Originally Posted by Lexycat

Marie, you're great at doing these sort of pieces, I have every confidence in you.....

me 2 ! go for it, and have fun. and we'll enjoy your progress

[marieUK]

Thanks for the encouragement Michelle, Annie, Lexy and Johanne, I need all the help I can get

[RWSewell]

You worry too much Marie. I anticipate a wonderful landscape with your usual romantic touch. Will be watching.

Rob

[bib]

I am glad that you started this one - looking forward to your next post!
-------------------
Angela

[marieUK]

Rob, I was born to worry, you know my work so well, I am just an old romantic
Angela, thanks for the kind words, update to come soon. I am on holiday from work so I am able to get cracking with it.

[marieUK]

Made a start today, all comments and suggestions and help appreciated

[frannydales]

Originally Posted by marieUK

Made a start today, all comments and suggestions and help appreciated

I hope you won't take offence, but you did say comments were welcome. My comment isn't about your technique, but rather, about your choice of subject matter. I'm wondering why the women in the painting has to be naked? I personally don't find that this makes for a romantic picture. Don't you think that leaving it to the imagination is more romantic? Now if she were wearing a light flowery, flowing summer dress, to my mind that is more beautiful, and would be just as representative of Spring. And rather than looking down (at herself?...or in deep thought) she could be looking at the rabbit? Maybe even reaching for it?

Just my take on it. It's just that sometimes I find that nudity in a painting is not really adding to or necessary to the story being presented. I'm sure many folks will disagree with me though!

[marieUK]

No offence taken at all Fran, we all have our opinions. Thank you for your input

[Jazz]

I do envy you your ability to put down on paper what is in your imagination -I would love to be able to do that .

Your start looks great and to my mind what is more beautiful than the female form? Am I right in thinking that she is naked because you are going for a more classical look to your piece? please feel free to correct me if I am wrong, LOL.

One suggestion - Maybe she could be reading a book or scroll? I do agree with Frannydale in that it might make more sense or even gazing at the lovely waterfall??

Anyway, just suggestions as it does work as it is, you are just getting my creative juices flowing and I am certainly pulling up my chair for the duration because I know you wont ruin it .

Ali

[marieUK]

Thanks Ali for your comments. You are right in part that I am being inspired by the classics. I felt it was very important that my central figure was naked as I wanted the viewer to have free reign to decide who she was. I wanted the viewer to have no clues as to who she is and clothes would detract from that. Her eyes are closed because she is meditating in the peace and tranquility of her surroundings and she is so at peace that creature are coming close to her. However thats what going on in my head, that doesn't mean it comes across that way to the viewer, so I am very happy to hear what everyone thinks.

[ocmd123]

Nice start, Marie! The piece as you have it is timeless. It is completely up to the viewer to decide if this is current, or 100 years ago.