Monday, May 16, 2011

Old Painting, New Look: Seagulls at Dusk, 13" x 18"

The latest version

I decided to take a closer look at old paintings that are still with me despite having been shown over and over, and now are taking precious space on my walls or in the studio.

I started with Seagulls at Dusk, a painting I did in 2007, based on a photo from the Wet Canvas reference library. At the time, I was very happy that I had used the photo reference in a minimal way (see photo at the bottom) and had let my creativity take over.

Lately, all I was seeing where repetitious and boring forms, so I gave myself two choices, to improve it or to trash it. As soon as the wall of conifers in the distance were removed I started seeing new possibilities. For now, I'm happy with the way it turned out as I feel it has some soul, but who knows what will happen in four years...

First version, 2007











photo reference

12 comments:

Unknown said...

Beautiful. You have a gift.

Adriana Meiss said...

Donnie, Thank you. You have a gift of your own, your photographs are not only great to look at but also very interesting.

Donna T said...

I really like what you did with this painting, Adriana, and good for you for taking the chance to improve it! Funny how our newer works seem to be simpler. I wish I could use a photo for a starting point like you can.

Daniel Lee "Dan" Michael said...

I really like the changes you made. It's so much more inviting now, warmer and a greater sense of space.

hmuxo said...

WOW! Adriana. I truly like the change you made on this painting!! Love the warmer color change. LOVE your pastel work!!

Adriana Meiss said...

Donna, I think that working on location has helped me to think in simpler terms. I've also noticed that I'm constantly asking myself more questions, and that makes me more critical about my own work. In any case, I have a wonderful round brush with a strait top, that's excellent for removing pastel!

Dan, Hilda,I'm glad you both like it! I was surprised at how much warmer the grasses look now with the purples and pinks of the sky.

Eugen Caitaz said...

Woww!!! Your art is very beautiful!!!! ;) Good luck to your next art project! ;)

Adriana Meiss said...

Jenea, Thank you for visiting!

Ida M. Glazier said...

Andriana, I really am amazed at the difference in feeling in the re-worked version! I really like it, and it doesn't seve seem close to the first work! Its somehow more mature in feeling, or mood, or simplisity----I hope you can understand what I mean- - - -its really nice, less hard edges in all the right places, and much better color!!

Adriana Meiss said...

Ida, I do understand what you mean. Thank you! I'm looking at things differently after taking Johannes webinar.

Tatiana said...

Very poetic,Adriana!

Adriana Meiss said...

Thank you Tatiana!