critique

Our work sometimes needs a critique. 

A thoughtful view of what is working and/ or what may be missing (?)

Some tend to talk about what they don’t like instead of objectively looking at their piece.

I recently painted abstract florals.

Sometimes what it is missing or is needed is so apparent. However, that is not always the case. 

I think sometimes it depends on how precious the piece is to us.

With my recent painting experience…. I was painting 8 to 9 sheets of paper at a time. Trying to eliminate preciousness with quantity. lol….

Initial pencil drawing. very similar supplies…slightly different use on each one.

Varying just a bit.

You have to first be willing to experiment. (Be willing to make a hot mess)

Then… stem. water dribbles. set aside to dry.

Circle back when drying to check on their “progress.”

Progress = magic that occurs during the drying time ( I can’t stress enough the ability to let dry naturally)

Once dry….. I think it was easier to see what was needed. Not to mention, fresh eyes can give new perspective.

I was explaining the process of the “single” pass creating to use as a mode of determining what I liked and what was missing, and someone asked, why don’t you just go back into the painting?

Great question…. Really. And I totally could. 

But this was really a lesson of learning. Of critiquing my own work. intuitive painting and be able maneuver quickly and know what is needed.

What do I like. 

What worked well.

What is repeatable.

What do I want to see again.

That is what the lesson is.

Not my ability to go back in and make things work.

Cuz, if you know me,…. I will work something to the Nth degree to make it work. I will find a way……

So for everything I liked, is there something missing?

Do line and shape create stillness or activity?

What is the weight of line in this piece?

How are the colors balanced? In what proportion are bright colors balanced with neutrals?

Is the work deliberately unbalanced in any way and why?

Is there high or low contrast? What emotions do these colors evoke?

Is the piece unified or does something look out of place and make me uncomfortable?

Is there repetition of element, shape, color or line?

Am I emphasizing sameness or variety?

Did I use perspective, placement, size, overlap, color or value shifts?

This was a great exercise in creating without making the pieces precious. Painting on paper with many pieces at a time. Moving quickly.

and then the critique when dry.

I made a short video of the entire stack of paintings I did. If you are interested.

xo. kristin