Monday, April 7, 2008

Linear perspective - a WIP

Ko'olau Vista WIP
9 x 12 soft pastels of Art Spectrum Colourfix
Miki Willa
When I was a kid, my favorite thing was to create streets or villages using linear perspective. You know. One point, two point, three point. My favorite was two point so I could create an intersection for my dream shopping streets. I carefully measured all my angles, putting in all my signs, windows, and plantings so they were just right. I think I did this for many years. I still think on two point perspective fondly. If only things were that simple.
Anyway, I have really gotten away from linear perspective as I have been working on aerial perspective. There are times, however, when I have to pay attention to both. This painting is an example. The trees are an important element in this painting. They represent a planting scheme in this park that will provide shady spots for families and display different trees that grow here. I have been looking at this painting all day trying to figure out what was bothering me. It is the most distant tree. It is too tall. I was so concerned about value, I forgot size. And what about that really dark area on the mountains right in the middle? What was I thinking? Sometimes it is so hard to get it all together. I have come a long way since I started seriously painting, but I have so far to go before I can stop thinking about all the rules with every stroke I make. Or does that ever happen? Or, are rules meant to be stretched once you know how to play by them?
I will try and post tomorrow, but after that, until next Tuesday, it will be dicey. My father passed away and I am traveling to California for his services. I will take my laptop, my camera, and my moleskine, but may not have much time for drawing.

1 comment:

virtual nexus said...

Miki - thankyou for your comment on mine, and every best wish as you travel next week and go to the services for your father.

While I was painting today I was thinking very much along the same lines as you; and wondering if I should work ideas out in rough beforehand.