PAINT OUT LOUD #2!
PAINT OUT LOUD is an "artumentary" of my new works from beginning to framed.
This is #2 in this series. I will be sharing secrets and insights about my creative process.
I love to capture people enjoying great food and libations in little cafes. I found this little coffee
shop on one of my photo adventures.
Deciding on the substrate and size of the piece, not only determines the foundation of a painting, but also
the tempo. I decided on an archival square panel, 12" x 12". I coated the panel with a two layers of yellow ochre, giving it
a warm base. I then sketched the layout and some details directly with oil paint using
filbert brushes and flats.
I worked directly in oil for the initial sketch.
The coffee shop had a warm welcoming vibe. The yellow base helped set the tone for this piece.
I kept the strokes very impressionistic and moved throughout the piece adding red
accents to maintain color continuity. I let some of the background color
show through the figures and the background.
I added more and more strokes to the figures and background and added
reflections to the floor.
The painting progressed easily. I kept changing the characters
as I painted. I lightened his hair color and changed his face. I like to make my characters lovable.
Each has a unique narrative lending to the paintings' story.
I continued honing each section of the painting and re-visiting the
characters until I felt they really spoke to each other and to me.
When the painting is finished, the story is told by the viewer and his/her personal interaction
with the characters.
I used a lot of vertical impressionistic strokes on the background, varied the strokes
on the people and tables and used mostly horizontal strokes on the floor and reflections
with a variety of brushes. I softened some areas with Q-tips and my fingers!
Close up of cafe chairs.
I really wanted to express the beauty of these cafe chairs. I did embellish
the colors and added in the sugar bowl - of course!
I emphasized the coffee cup poster in the frame above his head
to set the scene and make it fun. I changed his appearance and then
re-worked his chair. I was able to get the nice rounded effect of the chair back
with an American liner #1 brush . I added the reflections on the floor with a shader brush.
I love to use so many different brushes. It gives variety to the strokes and always adds
some very interesting results.
With thick strokes I re-painted the cups and glass on the table using very expressive strokes.
I added more highlights on her shirt and accentuated the light on the table behind her.
I added some details throughout the painting and as I have learned
it was time to put down the brushes and sign the painting.
"The Coffee Shoppe"
oil on archival panel, 12" x 12"
This painting is now available through my studio.
Hope you enjoyed this painting process.
I would love to hear from you. Let me know your thoughts
insights and comments.
Thank you.
Blessings,
September McGee
