Blog

 

"Past Present Future" B&W study

 

I have been working with both my left and right hand lately. Why you ask? I broke my elbow on my dominate arm. Luckily I am pretty good at using both hands. My right is the hand that over the years has been the one I use to write and do detail art work. But, with limitations over a few months, I needed to get practice using the left hand again. 

 

This has also helped  me think about composition, notan (the balance of light and dark), color compliments and enjoying the process. The Black and White image is a photo taken of the finished artwork. It helps me see if I have balance of light to dark. 

 

"Past Present Future" up-side-down

 

Sometimes when you are just not sure if a piece is done, turn it upside down. This is good to do if something feels off and you can't see it at first glace. By turning the artwork on it's head, this requires your brain to look at the image differently. Generally if something is not in balance you will than see where it needs to be adjusted.

 

"Past Present Future" 11.5 by 16" Mixed Medium 

 

People often ask how long did it take you to do that piece? Always a difficult question to answer. I don't keep track of hours. I worked on this piece in small windows of time, 15 minutes here and there. I built up to 30 minutes and pushed it at the end to 45 minutes. Working with a limited amount of mobility I had to take into consideration my level of pain. I needed to be mindful of enjoying making the art and not work till I was in pain. So, how long did it take almost two months. Towards the end I started feeling better, less pain and got carried away, that is when I worked for 45 minutes two days back to back. I took a 3 day break to let my hand and arm recoup. 

 

Art is finished in it's own time. I am still learning after all these years, sometimes you need to let the art guide you. Listen to your heart, and you body, be gentle and enjoy the journey. 

 

take care, linda hp