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.
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