A few days ago, I posted a blog and a painting about a farm with red poppies which is located in South Addison Maine along the Down East coast past Bar Harbor. Believe it or not, today's painting actually began as that particular painting with the poppies almost two weeks ago, but the concept didn't feel right, especially considering where I had placed the barn.
Perspective, especially on buildings, had been a challenge that week. For example, the house and its dormers were not one of my strong points. I spent an entire morning focused on the redraw of that particular aspect. I will admit - I am persnickety when it comes to certain details. I want to get it as close to "right" as I am able. But this also has to blend with how I want to the finished work to look.
It's not easy for me or other artists to admit that we are not perfect, nor do we sometimes intend to have a certain art work "look" perfect. If I wanted a piece to look the same as a photo, I would just paint over an enlarged photograph. I also have to digest the fact that this series of paintings is primarily being done for myself only. I'm not out to prove anything and this is sort of an experiment. I like barns - I love the mystery that sometimes surrounds them. I love the history and the tales they can possibly tell. I enjoy the feeling of driving along and coming upon one, especially if it has a great deal of character, around a bend in the road. It's like a surprise... sort of like finding a hidden treasure or that unexpected rare item at a steal of a price at a yard sale.
After being reasonably happy with the results last week, I let the painting dry for a few days. I then went back and glazed a layer of green on the grass before calling it finished.
Until next time,
The Happy Painter,
Jill
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