When I paint a still life, like many painters, I prefer to paint from life, i.e., a still life set up by myself, and painted outside or in my studio. I also usually take shots of the scene, just in case......in case I can't finish the painting before the flowers die, the fruit shrivels, or I temporarily lose my motivation. sigh.....:(
When I paint landscapes, I paint them on location aka painting plein aire. I do take photos, just in case. And, I try to finish at least a rough draft/canvas, while on the scene. The biggest problem is painting quickly enough, as the light changes so rapidly.
Rarely, I will work from a photo taken by someone else, but I have to be truly inspired to do this because it is simply much more difficult to attempt a true depiction from a photo rather than from life.
My friend, Rachel, whose blog is filled with the beauty of the photographs she has taken, is without formal training, and yet, she is one of the best artist-photographers I have seen.
A couple of days ago, Rachel posted an image that I fell in love with, and that you see in a reduced size above; I am hoping to paint it, as she has kindly given me her permission, and I wanted to thank her, thus this post.
Do be sure to visit Odd Vantage, Rachel's blog, and take some time to view her completely stunning photographs!
Thank you, Rachel!
Image is copyright © Odd Vantage 2008.
Article Copyright © by Art Journal 2008. All rights are reserved. No re-posting of articles without prior written permission is allowed
Why thank you! The original picture is pretty big but I can send it to you to work from if you want.
Posted by: Rachel | July 04, 2008 at 01:19 PM
Rachel does have a great eye ...now lets see what you can do
Posted by: Talen | July 04, 2008 at 01:53 PM
I thank you for this blog and wish you the greatest success and the best inspirations for your pictures.
Posted by: hesika | July 04, 2008 at 04:17 PM
@ Rachel.......that would be great! The one on your blog is a little small to work from. :)
@ Talen.....well, i'm sure I won't do the photo justice, but I will try.
@ Hesika......thank you very much. :)
Posted by: glam | July 04, 2008 at 08:38 PM
I admire those who can reproduce what they see with their eyes or imagine in their mind on canvass. I can only struggle to use words to do either. Nice post.
Posted by: Tony | July 15, 2008 at 10:14 AM