Studio Dogs and What's on the Easel

My Constant Studio Companions

I have several images in the works,

most started before Christmas and put on hold

with the busy-ness of the holidays.

~ I will share them as they progress ~

I've also been inspired by the beauty of Downton Abbey.

Awe-struck by the gorgeous sets and lighting,

many of the scenes look like masterpiece paintings.

So I think it's fitting to come from

Masterpiece Theater!

My newest painting features Lady Mary

and I am painting in the 'Grisaille' technique,

in which an underpainting is done in shades of gray.

When this is dry, thin color glazes are applied

one over the other, drying between each layer of color.

Actually, this painting is going to be more about

light and shadow than an actual portrait.

The image above on my easel (not Lady Mary) is further along

than in the photo now.  It too, is along the lines of the

Grisaille technique, as I paint in the shadows first.

It is more time-consuming and I am about to

go with a more Alla Prima technique

and get some thicker paint applied.

I don't have the patience required for the more drawn-out glazing process,

at least not on such a large painting.  Lady Mary will be 11x14.

The weather is creating the desire to stay in

and paint.... when the sun comes and blue skies,

bringing warmth and beauty,

I get rather distracted.