5 Lessons I Learned from "So - So" Paintings

I do love the color scheme!!!

 

Well, I finished them. I can't say I love them. But, I didn't give up and I learned a few lessons. And isn't that what this is all about?

1. I love the color scheme, it really seems to be working for me. And it has inspired me to do a series of artwork in these colors. I've decided not to clean my paint palette till it's finished. So, I don't forget the colors in the scheme.

2. Keep it simple, particularly when it comes to the subject matter. I don't mind the layers of text or printed items. It's the imagery that needs to stay simple.

3. I have a painting addiction. Once I start it's very hard to stop, which leads to over working a piece of artwork. I need to use some restraint and step away from the easel every now and again.

4. Stop using the imagery to frame the composition. PERIOD... I teach my kids at school not to do this and here I am doing it!!!

5. Color Contrast is my friend. It is something I have consistently really loved about my favorite paintings. And in these two paintings I applied acrylic washes over each which really toned down the contrast.

What lessons have you learned from painting "so - so " paintings?

I don't love the dark blue just at the bottom, but I do like the texture of effect.