Poppin'

To create this painting I used several photographs of poppies taken on the same day, choosing flowers, buds, and pods from each. In this way I was able to put together an interesting composition, which was more interesting than any of the individual photos on its own. The most challenging part of the entire painting process was to paint all of those tiny hairs lining the stems. I started by applying liquid frisket slowly and carefully, using a small pointed brush, to every hair. This was quite time consuming, but it allowed me to later paint the darker stem colors and background colors freely with a large brush. I applied several glazes on the background, to get it to the final deep value I wanted. This was essential in creating the feeling of strong light falling on and coming through the flowers. I contrasted blues and purples in the background with the yellows and oranges in the flowers - - color theory at work for me! Once the background was established, I removed the frisket and toned the hairs, using colors to reflect and repeat the colors found elsewhere in the painting.

Poppin'

watercolor on cold pressed paper

private collection, not for sale

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http://www.alexislavineartist.com