The Venetians - WIP

[Linda Brandon]

Hi Bob,

I've only seen a few of your paintings so far but I'm impressed with the strong compostions and dramatic lines in your work. I think these are big strengths and it's great that you have them. I like the vertical line and the dark shape that stops the right side of the painting.

The only points I'd make on this one is that I wish you'd left more space on the left side of the man's head. Also, recheck the bend in the girl's elbow, the forearm looks too long here, and you may have some photo distortion going on that is misleading you.

I keep reading art articles that indicate that warm paintings are more instinctively desireable than cool ones. I don't know if this is true but I'm watching to see what you'll do with this red underpainting.

[Bob Bissett]

Thanks, Linda, for taking the time. May have to do a new one and consider this a study. I think it has potential. Didn't do any drawing just started right in with the eyes and it kept growing to the left. Her arm is straight, so what looks like an elbow is actually poorly drawn folds. And the glasses aren't exactly right.

Normally I do a prelim on the computer and carefully plan everything to avoid these problems. Sometimes it's fun to live dangerously. The white panel is like an unmarked black diamond on a powder day. Launching yourself into the unknown is an act of faith. It's sure to be exciting and liberating, but sometimes you crash.