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Saturday, February 13, 2010

Another Sketch~Yup, More Birch


I've painted more birch landscapes these last few weeks than I care to count. All hit the bin. I felt my confidence begin to fade and when that happens nothing I paint seems to work. Yesterday I was browsing on Facebook and found the oil paintings of Michael Godfrey. He's done a series of winter landscapes, none with birch that I saw, but I was entranced with the way he handled the snow and that winter woodsy atmosphere. This has been my main issue...how to make a white landscape with white trees sing and not look terribly stark and boring. Also I had certain colors that needed to be incorporated(and more to be left out) to make this painting work with it's companion. Commissions can be tricky.

There's a certain freedom with oils that's not enjoyed when working in watercolor, at least for me. How to achieve the same look as Godfrey's work with watercolor was now the issue. I decided to use gesso as a painting medium, something I've never done before and it worked pretty well. It's great for hazy backgrounds. I also switched to 300# CP paper for texture.

BTW, if you're a member of Facebook please take the time to look up Michael Godfrey's work. You won't be sorry. If you do check out his gallery you'll spot which painting I took my inspiration from easily.

6 comments:

Mary-Beth said...

Billy, this is absolutely lovely. I envy anyone who can paint!
I'll have to remember to look up that gentleman to see his paintings, thanks for the heads up!

SLW said...

Billie, you know how I feel about it! I think it sweeps you up and places you gently right in the midst of the scene - where you can fully enjoy the beauty and serenity! Great work!

Tracey said...

Very tranquile :) Great idea with the gesso. I am contemplating using acrylics over a watercolor that crapped out for some reason but now thinking maybe gesso is the way to go :)

Billie Crain said...

Thank you, Mary-Beth.:) Godfrey's work is amazing so I do hope you check it out.

Billie Crain said...

LOL! I'm so happy you like this one, Sue. It's a huge weight off of me and I did learn a few things along the way.

Billie Crain said...

Tracey, if I would've had gouache I'd have used that but I don't so I didn't. I'm familiar with gesso and so pleased it worked out.