This week's class is focused on painting a live model. Our subject is a man, approximately 40 years old, posed in a relaxed position on a sofa reading a magazine. Sort of a 'kick back and relax after a hard day at work' feel. This is the first attempt I have ever made with a live model. I have to say the experience is somewhat intimidating but exciting at the same time.At first I felt somewhat guilty viewing this person as more of an object than a human. But after awhile, I felt myself relax and focus on the elements and nuances involved in creating a life painting.
The biggest challenge of the night was placing the first pencil mark on the canvas. With composition being the key to a well balanced image, I wanted to be sure the image was well spaced, placed and of an appropriate size to make an impact, while ensuring that the eye was not drawn off the canvas due to poor planning. Once our instructor, Cristian, gave us a time limit for finishing the sketch, I found myself laying down the drawing much more quickly and thinking less.
The next challenge I experienced was the speed at which I mixed the colours needed. I'm sure that with time, my confidence will build and the mixing will become faster and more accurate.
What I enjoyed the most was seeing the shape on my canvass begin to come to life with a likeness of the model.
All in all, I'm quite pleased with the progress I am making, especially considering this is my first time painting a person from life. I can't wait to see what begins to emerge through the layers of paint next week.
Challenge: Not mixing enough paint, positioning the image
Reward: Seeing the likeness take shape
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