The approach to cobblestones is very similar to the way I paint a terra-cotta tile floor. The light and dark patterns are blocked in first with cool colors in the back, warmer tones in the foreground. Heavier brushstrokes are used to give the texture associated with cobbles. The perspective lines indicating the crevices between the stones are drawn into the wet paint with a medium Bright brush dipped in a mix of MUD + Liquin. The gentle curve helps direct the viewer’s gaze to Cap Ferrat in the distance.
The horizontal lines between the individual stones are now in place. While the floor is still wet I go ahead and sign the painting. It would be extremely difficult to add my signature if the paint was dry. Pulling a smooth line would be almost impossible. The shadows of the Petunias are blocked in, followed by the greens of the foliage.
The yellow-orange of the Nasturtiums glows against the red door. The warm green leaves are mixed from various combinations of Ultramarine Blue + Cadmium Yellow Medium. A few strokes of Phtalo Blue + White, leftover from the water, are added to the foliage for coolness in the shadows.
A Forever View 24″ x 20″ Original Oil Painting
The shadow across the foreground acts as a dark threshold. The darkness allows the sunlight to skip over the tips of the purple Salvia in the left foreground. The shaft of light bounces over the cobblestones and lands on the Petunias, Red Door and Nasturtiums. The viewer’s gaze is then pulled through the open arch to the sparkling Mediterranean beyond. A Forever View that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Hugs, Mikki Senkarik
June 17, 2011 at 9:23 AM |
Good morning Mikki. I’m enjoying all of your beautiful paintings and look forward to each new one.
I especially liked Breathtaking Retreat and Essence of Taos until I saw Forever View!
Barbara