Part of the ongoing work for my Parallel project was to explore four compositions to see how well I could interpret them. I had selected four photographs from my portfolio.
All had a landscape orientation. Using the same palette of colours for each painting I made four quick studies taking between 30 minutes to an hour on each painting.
Painting 1
Painting 2
Painting 3
Painting 4
The four paintings are all satisfactory but two in particular I prefer. These are paintings number 1 & 2. Both have an atmosphere about them. This is particularly true for painting 2 where the brooding landscape evokes the coming rain storm. The building itself is rather undefined giving it a ominous aspect. It leaves the imagination to fill in what is not depicted. Painting 1 has a foreboding look to it. The entrance is open but it is not welcoming. The inclusion of the signage makes it obvious what the building is, but rather than an invitation it acts as a warning. Paintings 3 & 4, although having a similar look and feel to the paintings 1 & 2, do not have an additional element to them. It is the mood and atmosphere that I am attempting to bring into my work. It is partly evident in Painting 4 but lacking in Painting 3. Painting 3 also has perspective issues which could be resolved. In summary a useful exercise. I expect that I will use Paintings 1 & 2 as the basis for larger works.
Mark Taylor 'Studio Practice' 