Bouguereau- La Petite Boudeuse, 1888

[Janel Maples]

Some time back I mentioned I was given permission to paint this beauty at the Rahr West Art Museum in Manitowoc, Wisconsin. I am so lucky to have access to this painting and only five minutes from my home.

I thought I would share a photo showing where I am in the project. This photo was taken two days ago.

I am sorry for the poor photo quality, but there is a window in back of my painting which makes it difficult to get a good shot. It also makes it challenging for me to paint because of the light coming through the canvas at times, but I am not complaining, I am SO grateful to be getting this opportunity.

I am having the time of my life.

[Terri Ficenec]

Janel... how totally cool that you're getting to do this!

Do you get people watching over your shoulder while you paint then? (and do you find that nervewracking or energizing?) Would love to see a better shot of your painting!

[Janel Maples]

Terri,

It is totally cool, and yes, people do look over my shoulder. Some ask questions, some give advice. I find it an energizer so far. Most people are very nice about what they see. It has a LONG way to go and so it is a sitting duck for comments like "something is not quite right." Or "are you going to finish that part?"

As far as other shots, I have a lot from the start to now but I am trying to learn my new computer. I've taken the plunge from PC to Apple and I'm not sure how to get the pics the right size, that is why this one above looks awful. I will try again.

But, I will warn you Terri, it is NOTHING like what you are producing lately. I can't express enough how impressive your paintings have been. I am working hard toward painting like you. And, I mean that. Your style is great.

[Enzie Shahmiri]

Janel, this looks like it would be great fun to do. If you are able to get a piece of plywood about 1/4 inch thick and place it behind the canvas. When the weather is just to nice to resist, I sometimes move my work outside to paint and this has helped greatly to reduce the light sifting through from behind.

I can't wait to see the final rendition.

[Janel Maples]

Thanks Enzie. Only I feel like a dork for not thinking of it myself. It is a great solution.

OK Terri, I am going to try this yet again. Hope this works. I am killing my reference during the reduction process. I will be glad when I have this figured out.

[Terri Ficenec]

Gosh, thanks Janel (you flatter me ). . .

Thanks for posting your work in progress. It's turning out really well already! I give you so much credit for being able to do this in the museum with an 'audience' of sorts!