Often followers ask about current projects. Though at this time, I have no in-depth project involving an ancient culture or goddess from an ancient world, there are endless pigments, mediums, brushstrokes, or canvas textures to investigate. On my easel right now, is the painting posted here in its early stages of development. Dramatic light is always paramount to my composition design, but here the intention is to play with the color red and see how far it can be pushed before overtaking the entire picture.
The set-up is on the right side of the image and the painting shows on the left. The splendid red scarf is quite shear with some slight texture where the light hits and creates perfect reflections. In some places, the fabric looks orangey red, and in others, it has a distinct bluish cast.
As you know, natural cinnabar is my red pigment of choice, but the one big drawback is its high cost. The technique to employ when this issue arises is to lay in the initial color with another hue of lesser expense. After this layer is dry, it is easy to go over it again with genuine cinnabar. This is a trick that was used by most all painters from centuries past, especially when using the very costly lapis lazuli.
For the red shadows, I used madder, burnt umber, and green earth. To balance out the heat of the red, my plan is to add coolness to the background, which will be a perfect foil for the white amaryllis and other objects in the composition. I’ll post more progressive images as I go along. What colors have you pushed to the limits? We would love to hear of your experiments along this line. Leave your comments below with your stories.
I have appreciated Margret’s paintings for years. I start each day walking past a small piece she did while in Florida in 1994, and wish I could afford more. Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.
Thanks Chris, for your nice comments. I remember those days in Florida so long ago. So many wonderful scenes to paint. Glad you are still enjoying yours. Margret
Do you have a book on painting? Do you give classes? I love all your instructions on your blog….we are so fortunate for the time you spend giving the advice you do. Would you have plans on selling a video? I looked on your site but did not see a video or book advertised.
A video would be wonderful!!!!
Hello Alice,
I am in the process of writing a book about my techniques, so in the meantime I am happy you enjoy my instructions on this blog.
Best Regards,
Margret
Hi, I admire your beautiful work. I am an oil amateur painter, just do it for the fun and because I love nature, but I would like to learn from a professional. Your lighting in your paintings is amazing. Please let me know if you give classes or have any type of workshops.
Sincerely,
Aida Parisio
Hello Aida, Thank you for your comments. You are fortunate to be able to love nature and paint for fun. That is the best way. I will keep you informed of any future workshops.
Best, Margret