Why would an artist paint or sculpt a subject like flowers
if they were using the real deal as the model? You have the beauty sitting
right in front of you. Why not snap a photo and be done?
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| Japanese Iris in a Vase, 16x12 oil on canvas board |
For me studying the flowers in close detail gives me a
chance to soak in the emotions of seeing its beauty and express that emotion in
my response. Also it’s fun and challenging and at the end of the experience you
have preserved that flower for years to come. Just think of all those wilted former
sparks of joy and how they are not with us except in our memories.
Recently I looked through some paintings that needed a little
touch-up help and found a painting of a pot of Japanese irises that just might be improved.
After several weak attempts I turned to an expert on the subject of flowers,
Vincent Van Gogh. His potted flowers are just the inspiration I needed.
The day that this entry was written Scott Kelly just
returned from one year in the international space station. One of his many experiments
was growing flowers in space. He remarked that the flowers brought him closer
to his home, earth. Most earthlings feel a special wonder to the flowers
that can speak to us saying, I love you, or I’m sorry, or Welcome Spring.
Here’s to a new season! Be sure to celebrate Arts Advocacy
Day, Monday March 7.
Joel
Joel Ellis Art, www.joelellisart.com  |
| Three Poppies, 20x24 |
