Let’s start with the background. The cool greens, made of several combinations of White + Pthalo Blue + Cadmium Orange, will make the warm hues of the Cross Vine and Cardinals POP! Using the corner of my large, square tipped “Bright” brush I carefully work around Mr. Chippers. To learn more about the brushes I prefer to use CLICK HERE.
Since the sun pours into the painting from the upper left, that portion of the background is made lighter. It becomes progressively darker as we move toward the lower and right edges of the canvas. Please remember, you may click on this or any of the other images to see enlargements.
The rugged cedar fence post and rail are painted with mixes of MUD (2 parts Ultramarine Blue + 1 part Alizarin Crimson) + Cadmium Orange + White. Some of the flowers cast shadows on the rounded surface of the upright post that supports the bird house.
Now for the flowers of the Cross Vine that were previously washed in with thin oil mixes of Permanent Rose and Magenta. Mixtures of Cadmium Orange + Alizarin Crimson, Cadmium Orange, Cadmium Orange + Cadmium Yellow Medium and Permanent Rose + White are used to block in the brilliantly colored blossoms. Some of the washed in areas show through, adding luminosity to the delicate petals.
The deep, dark centers of the flowers are made with the corner of a smaller “Bright” brushed dipped in a mix of Magenta + Liquin Original.
The contrast of having soft, muted colors in the background makes the more intense hues of the Cross Vine appear even brighter! I appreciate you visiting my studio today, please come back again. HUGS,
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© Senkarik 2021
Mikki Senkarik 
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