Tan Lines

"Tan lines" 10" x 8" Graphite on tan paper

It's December, yet the model's tan lines were as provocative as if she had been in the south of France a week ago. Yet, the lines were only on her back. Her front was devoid of lines of any sort. Perhaps a tanning bed, but why would one wear a suit in a tanning bed?  As I drew her, I wondered if she was aware of her graphic presentation? 

I'm new to drawing the figure since spring. I'm in a group setting, but without a teacher, so it's once again, seat of the pants kind of art — just like watercolor, acrylic, oil and pastel. Why should this be any different?

Carol

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Meg's Leg

"Meg's Leg" 8" x 8" Graphite on paper

Meg was a model in the life drawing session I'm taking in an art center near where I live.  Even though the pose was comfortable for Meg, the only thing I really nailed was her left leg.  

When the opportunity presented itself, I saw the merit in attending the open studio, without an instructor. I've never done this before. I'm entirely new to drawing the figure from life. I wasn't classically trained. At this late stage of my life I'm trying the things I missed when I pursued chemistry rather than art.

Carol

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Four Hands

"Four Hands" 23" x14" Oil on hardboard

My friends have been encouraging me to paint the figure. "How different can it be from a closeup of a flower?" they've asked.  When one of them provided me with this photo that he took, I recognized the perfect opportunity to give it a whirl.  This was an exercise in observing the relationship between colors, values and edges.  I'm amazed at how similar it was to painting, for instance, a rose.  I hope to do more. 

Except for a few pregnancy portraits I've not painted a figure or anything like this before. I'll improve ... if I continue.

Carol

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