My Painting Process:
A case study of my painting: "Boquillas Canyon & The Rio Grande, Big Bend National Park."
1. I look through my landscape photos (The photos are usually from places that I have visited.) and find one that inspires me. Which means I find something in it that is visually interesting to me. For example, in this photo I was fascinated by the light and shadows of the cactus. I also enjoyed the undulations of the river and the vegetation in the background. Memories of aesthetically experiencing each place also help me choose.
2. Next I manipulate the photo using Photoshop. I think about the composition at this stage. In this case I change the angle of the river to exaggerate the background's undulating feel. I take out parts of the photo and decide on the shape of the canvas. I also think about how the viewer will experience the painting here, and remember how I experienced it.
3. After I think the painting through on the computer, I usually draw a sketch with pencil and paper.
4. After I build and stretch the canvases by hand, I begin to paint, usually with oil paint. When I paint I already have an idea of how I want to effect the eyes of the viewer. During the process many elements of the painting change and they eventually come together as a whole in the end. (Usually at least.)
5. And eventually after hours of work, the finished product. Title: "Boquillas Canyon & The Rio Grande, Big Bend National Park."
(Note: This is just one
example of how I create a painting. There is no exact formula to
making art.)
