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Figure painting in watercolor class

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January 27, 2010

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The following post contains images that may not be appropriate for the youngest viewers. Figure drawing class consists of both clothed and nude models. I had years of previous experience with figure drawing in pencil and charcoal before I entered this class. Results not typical if one has never drawn before!

Honestly, I chose this class on a whim because the class I really wanted was full when I went to register.  So I asked which classes did have room left. The one that I felt an affinity for was “Figure and portrait painting in watercolor with Dennis Pendleton.” I was going to take solar plate printmaking; perhaps I will later this year.

I faced a small fear by enrolling; I was scared of working with color! I can use colored pencils just fine, but when I paint my results are out of control.  I took 4 classes; one month’s worth. I’ve seen a great improvement in my color mixing and treatment of color temperature.
Figure painting with watercolor
In this one, my instructor actually mixed the wash for me, and that’s how I learned NOT to paint a bright orange blob.

reclining figure watercolor
These are by no means masterpieces. They are training exercises, that’s all. I’ve now realized that the path to purpose really does take practice. If one wants to be a dancer, can it be done without dancing? If one wants to be an athlete, can it be done without workouts and training? It’s not that I really want to be an artist; what I want is to be able to paint what I see in my dreams and imagination to share a big idea with you.

I want to be ready when the inspiration strikes!

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5 comments

  1. Maryse says:

    January 29, 2010 at 2:08 pm (UTC -7 )

    So great that you are following your artistic path! And yes, it does take practice. You’re on to a wonderful start. congratulations!

    Maryse

    1. Jessica says:

      January 30, 2010 at 5:36 pm (UTC -7 )

      Thanks Maryse! I’m happy you decided to blog; your writing is crystal clear and pierces the soul!

  2. Maryse says:

    January 31, 2010 at 7:22 am (UTC -7 )

    Just seeing your note here. Thanks!

  3. Kathy says:

    February 7, 2010 at 7:42 am (UTC -7 )

    I am admiring your commitment to this painting! You might not think they are masterpieces…but they look like masterpieces to me! I can’t imagine painting anything this well. Way to go, Jessica! Just think what you would produce with “workouts and training”. It’s mind-boggling. :razz:

    1. Jessica says:

      February 7, 2010 at 5:22 pm (UTC -7 )

      Thanks, Kathy. It is mind boggling! I think the pro artists give advice to amateurs like me to just draw, draw, and draw some more, even when you don’t feel like it. I haven’t gotten over that hump yet, what with the kids, business, and other job, running the house, paying the bills…But I did paint a ferret from a photo last night.

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