Vignettes – a brief evocative description…
I took this photograph of the alley behind the School House, Olhao – where the calla lily caught my eye. http://www.artinthealgarve.com
It’s so easy to become overwhelmed when plein air painting. So much to observe – where to begin?
To overcome this, I suggest painting details – or vignettes of the subject. These rapid sketches help to focus the eye and mind.
Rapid watercolour sketch….focusing on the negative space.
Consider that making these quick sketches is like an athlete or dancer warming up. Along with providing information they hone observational skills.
Note that all the whites in this image, including the calla lily are dry, white paper.
By adding darks around the Calla Lily into the negative space – the lily is revealed.
I can hardly believe that another weekend is upon us….reminding me once again that time is our most precious commodity.
Have a lovely weekend, filled with magical hummingbirds:)
A Bientôt
My Life as an Artist (2) 
Janet… Gorgeous and full of light and the joys of spring. Happy weekend!
Lovely lily! Happy weekend!
You capture the light so beautifully, Janet.
Oh how I loved this post, Janet. The photo of the inspiration, the description, the idea of a painting vignette, and then the gradual stages of your lovely work. Thanks so much. 😀
Thank you…much appreciated:)
Have a wonderful weekend, as I continue to getting absorbed into your beautiful scene.
Thank you, Mary….happy painting for the week ahead. Janet:)
Same to you Janet!
That is lovely! All your work flows so beautifully, filled with light and air!xxx
Thank you, Dina…what a lovely compliment. xxx
Janet, everything you do is beautiful! Even quick sketches and negative space exercises. You’re right about focusing on a detail — because when the eye (or the mind) beholds so very much, it’s hard to think where to begin. I have to do that in writing, as you do it in art. Hummingbird hugs. 🙂 ❤
I am recognising more and more that painting and writing are such similar disciplines. Thank you, Teagen. xx
Very, very lovely, Janet!
a delightful walk…