Last night in my art class (Experimental Acrylic Techniques) we used pigments. The teacher brought in five or six natural pigments, which we mixed with water and medium to get a paint-like consistency. And then we painted. It took a little while to get used to the different qualities of the pigments, the varying coverage they offered, etc. The limited palette also took some getting used to, since most of my works involve the whole spectrum. I spent about two hours working on the above Tuscan farmhouse painting (20 x 24 inches, on canvas). I was frustrated with it because the piece looked really boring to me. The teacher disagreed and suggested it was done. I admit I like it much more today than I did last night. I was sure I was going to paint over it as of yesterday, but today I’m not sure what I’ll do with it.
I came home with a substantial amount of leftover pigments (and a partially-completed self portrait I worked on for the last 30 minutes of class). I can’t decide what I want to do with them. Another attempt at a Tuscan scene, perhaps? The colors do seem fitting. Or perhaps I’ll use them in some sort of mixed-media experiment. Hmmm.
good good job. i keep thinking i should practice limiting my palette….
Lovely rustic hues Jul!
It was a good exercise to work with a limited palette. Perhaps I should try it more often. I usually pull out every single tube of paint I have!
jul, I think this has a lovely atmosphere and really am feeling that limited palette as soothing…I like it alot, in other words! 🙂
thank you for your kind comments as well….they are so appreciated and I am just a little slow getting around lately to cast my gratitude…many blessings and have fun with your art…it’s wonderful.
I really enjoy this one, too!
I have a picture in blues & browns that was done with powdered pigment by one of the local College Art prof/ artist – for awhile he was using the pigments 'dry' – rather like pastels – I recall watching him do one, sprinkling some powder on, smearing with a chammy or sponge(?) . . . a lovely hazy look! I got some powdered pigments to play with around that time – & don't think I ever have!! I just got some of the metalic pigments, & intend to use them with mixed media.
Enjoy!