Marsh Spring6.5 x 4.5 inches
colored pencil on paper
©2008 by Ann Thompson Nemcosky
Here is a colored pencil drawing that I did a while ago, from our trip to Edisto Island, SC, last March. I was taken with the color of the marshes, how they not only change with the seasons but also change depending on the light and time of day. Bits of water reflecting the sky punctuating the multi-hued grasses provide a play of color and texture.
My first week of my garage "painting workshop" has been okay. Not astounding, but it has been revealing to me on several levels. What I am most struck with is the realization that what I 'know' about color and what I actually do with color are two different things. Just like drawing requires a constant practice of seeing shape, value, and texture, successfully working with color also depends a lot on constant practice. In order to use color on my terms rather than relying totally on what my reference is telling me I know I need much more practice cultivating my awareness of color.
For those of you who do work more with interpretative color, how do you keep your color senses sharp? I would be interested in hearing. I'm sure there are as many methods as there are artists.
Anyway, I'm not sharing any painting results just yet. Maybe after I've been at it a little while longer.
Very nice colours in the drawing :) really do give a wonderful representation of the colours that can be found in a marsh. Great textures on the marsh grasses.
ReplyDeleteGlad to read it is going ok, really all a person can say. :)
I wish I used more colour, so I am interested to read what others will type. I do know that I use more blues and yellows, and wish I would branch out with the other colours. Those other coloured pencils are looking really lonely and long next to the short ones :p
I've just started a self directed course in color as well. I found Nita Lelands "Exploring Color" very helpful.
ReplyDeleteSo far, the concept of sorting colors into distinct harmonious "palettes" has been eye opening!
Keep up the good work.
I like the colors of the grasses and the softness in the background. Also, interested in hearing more about your - and others' - color discoveries. Someday after more practice with basic drawing and painting, I'd like to devote more time and attention to studying color the way you are now.
ReplyDeleteYou are making me want to rent that beach house on big bay creek that i just found...it was even reasonable!!! lovely sketch...love marsh grass
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kind comments :)
ReplyDeleteJennifer, I am the same way. And the pencils I use most are the same colors I find hanging in my clothes closet! Funny how that happens.
Nice colours Ann - it makes me want to get a marsh one out that I did a while back and have another go!
ReplyDeleteThanks Katherine. I really appreciate you stopping by and your kind comment. Your work is always an inspiration to me. I'd love to see what you would do with a marsh scene!
ReplyDeleteI've enjoyed look at your work. Of all that I see on this page, I think I like this one the best.
ReplyDelete