Update on Number Nine

I spent this weekend working exclusively on AFP Nine of Wands. Normally I have multiple projects going on at the same time. On any given day I might work on 2 or 3 different paintings (switching from one to the other to allow layers to dry), piece together an assemblage, do a sketch or two in my art journals, and so on. But I thought AFP Nine of Wands would be a great exercise to see if I truly could focus on a single project when I need to. This does have a very definite deadline. And focus isn't always my strong point.

First I sketched ideas in my art journal and came up with one which fit the criteria. It represented the card. It represented AFP. The composition was strong. It fit my own personal style.

Then I transferred my ideas on to canvas, tweaking here and there as needed. I color-blocked the background; the mountains, sky and path. I know the figure will take the most time and I wanted to concentrate on the easy bits first. After I had it color-blocked I started working on the details of the background. I spent a good part of Saturday and all of Sunday on this step. And I do have to say I'm happy with it.

After I had reached a state of completion with the background I color-blocked the figure. This is as far as I got this weekend. But it's a great stage to be at. I can now look at the painting and see what it will be. I know from past experiences I can spend weeks and weeks getting the shadows and skin tones just right. So that will be my focus until October 1st. I shouldn't have to tweak the background now. My focus is AFP.

As always happens, working so focused has opened a font of creativity.
~ I've got a strong idea for my scavenger hunt art project. http://noyestudios.blogspot.com/2009/08/photo-inspiration.html
~ I also found a piece of driftwood that looks just like a llama's neck and head and I've got some ideas on how to finish the body.
~ The weather is perfect to continue work on the bottle wall and Zen garden.
http://noyestudios.blogspot.com/2009/08/zen-garden-small-step.html
~ I started 3 canvas' while on vacation in Florida and I'm anxious to bring them all to completion.
~ I have 3 portraits I started weeks before vacation and they certainly aren't going anywhere.

But I have to focus. Those projects will still be there when AFP Nine of Wands is complete.