Gut Instincts

40 minute start from model

After reworking in studio

I paint best when I don't think. I just dive in and paint what I see without much thought. (Left image is after painting from life  and the right image is after I took all the life out of it at home)

The problem comes when I go back in and try to refine or finish a start. Then I tighten up. I want to define every section - foreground or background (which really throws me) and I just flounder trying to make decisions about color, temperature, light and shadow.

I think I naturally make good compositions and good color choices when i just get to work with a time limit - either self imposed or during a model session or plein air painting.

I suppose this is another reason I don't feel able to teach - I can't put into words what I do or solve problems once they arise. I have a long way to go to be able to make CHOICES to make a beautiful painting. I'm enjoying this time of discovery though.