Started a big one

With all of the art shows coming up, and spring in
the works, I started a big painting today. The model
is beautiful and we sifted through the six remaining
gorgeous wedding dresses my friend Jan Marriott,
(the exquisite vintage dress and fabric lady) gave
me last fall, to find the one that would suit the
new painting. My model fell for one, and when she
put it on, I knew she was right. It may not end up
as a white dress although I'm starting the under
painting as though it will.

Beginning of a new painting
acrylic on canvas
36 x 48 inches

On an orange ground
I began by sketching
in the shapes. Then
I started playing with lights and darks.

The model wants the dress painted red, and I can go
there if it seems right. I didn't get very far today
because we were choosing an outfit, arranging the pose,
and blocking out the work. But the portrait is on its
way, and I feel really excited.

I worked a little more refining
the drawing. With charcoal
I can keep making these decisions
until I'm satisfied because it washes off dry
acrylic. I started working
on the background and blocking in the dress.

After working mainly on small work for a while it's
energizing to wield a big brush and work from a
model again. Another painting in the Before
the Dance series maybe, or I may make her hold a book.
Right now all is glorious possibility.

Have a wow-it's-true-it's-fun-to-paint-large day.