To me, daffodils have always represented the beginning of Spring and all things "bright and beautiful." I grew up in Washington State where many daffodils and tulips are grown and harvested. It was a family tradition to load the car with family and drive to La Conner and other cities where the farms were. They never disappointed. Rows and rows of flowers at their prime in many shades. There was always a Daffodil Parade in the Spring to celebrate the flowers.
Technical Notes:
I've been trying to work out a problem I have with painting in oils for some time. It has to do with the application of paint onto the canvas or panel. This doesn't seem to be a problem for many artist judging by studying their work posted on blogs and online galleries. Often, for me, the paint hits only the top of the fabric (linen or canvas) and leaves a rather ragged appearance which I end up re-brushing until the surface is covered sufficiently.
It seems to me the problem is either I don't have enough paint on my brush or I need to use the right amount of medium mixed with it. I also thought it could be the brushstrokes I make or the use of the wrong brush for the job.
The problem is reduced when I use gessoed panels, but when I use canvas or linen it occurs frequently. I have added Liquin recently to my paint, and it has helped. I do feel brushwork is an area on which I need to focus. I love the oil works of Terry Miura, Barbara Newton, Andre Kohn, Nancy Franke, Lorraine Shirkus, Cathleen Rehfeld, Jean Ranstrom, Kim English, Robin Weiss and soooo many others I cannot list here to give you an idea of what I'm after.
I do understand that my level of accomplishment is far beneath what these artists and others can do. But, I would like to zero in on whatever it is that would help me produce a more determined, confident look in brushwork. If you are aware of resources (books, tutorials, articles, etc.) out there I'd appreciate knowing it.
Have a great week, and thanks for "listening."
