here’s what he looked like when i shared the unfinished painting with you before….
i felt like he just didn’t have enough depth. so i covered up that sun in the sky to make the one in his belly be the main focus. then i tried writing words through the background with my ink. that did not work (not as one word nor lots of scrolling sentences…but, i tried them all). i painted over the words with the white and felt like i was pretty much back where i started.
but then i thought i could add some texture and color, so i spray painted in a few stencils in the sky and ground. i liked the look in the ground, but not the sky. so the sky got white yet again.
i thought, this should just be a simple, happy painting. it’s finished! so i applied a top coat of antique decoupage, but it turned everything way too yellow! when it dried, i repainted the white…again!
then i retraced my bird with the india ink and finally applied a clear top coat (no yellowing this time!). and then his was complete!
i just love how this little guy turned out, yet i’m feeling like i could still make some changes. but after all of this, i know it’s time to let it go. so this little birdie became THERE’S ALWAYS SUNSHINE IN THE END.
and that’s how my WISE OWL came about. only with my owl, i was having a ton of trouble finding my character. i think i painted over the entire canvas three or four times. some days i just find it easier to get rid of the entire piece and start from scratch. and from there, this wise owl came to life!
**************************
ps. i have an interview over on polly’s inspiring blog pixie mama! read it right here!
Add comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
HELLO
I'M JULIETTE
A painter, writer, and creator of The School Of Happy Painting, online courses to help you loosen up, let go, and develop your own unique style.
Join me for a Free Workshop!
Want to know how I create my paintings? Join this free workshop to learn the fundamental principles I use to paint with style and whimsy, from covering up the white space to final artwork. Follow along to paint your own character in 30 minutes.
6 comments
" M "
YOur wise owl turned out great Juliette,I know what you mean , I will redo stuff as well thinking it just was missing something , that was wise to stick with the white background, it was meant to be ! : P
Tam Hess
You've achieved that wonderful richness that is present in all your work. I LOVE IT! I think your newest wise old owl is gorgeous too. 🙂
Ariad
Hi Juliette,
I just found your blog after reading the article over at Pixie Mamas. I love your art, especially that owl!
Thanks for sharing.
x
SaraLynn
I love these. I especially love the composition in the red owl painting – those trees look wonderful!
Nelly
Can not wait to hear your interview with Beth Nicholls. I know it will be amazing!
Suzanne
I love your posts where you show the evolution of a painting. It's really so interesting.