"Reach"
by Tracey Costescu
Critique #1 by Elaine WilkFirst impression - the figure is centered and seems to be floating , painted in midtone and darks, hard edges in sepia. The contrast is the shadow. The rhythm and variation is good.
The painting is disturbing to me. If this is what the artist is striving for, it's working.
It leaves me trying to understand the shadows and form - which don't seem to be correct.
The brush work (or air-brush work) is very good.
Elaine Wilk, NWWS
Critique #2 by Joe MacKechnie, NWWS
Design/Composition:
A simple design with limited background information. Even though the figure is placed in the center of the page, it works because of the great gesture and angles throughout the body. Since this is a photo-realistic monochromatic painting, the shadow on the wall and over the arm should be realistic too. That is, as the shadow moves down the wall, it should change direction when it meets the floor. Also, as the shadow moves across the arm, it should follow the contour of the arm and should also change value (lighter) as it moves across the surface of the arm.
Value/Contrast:
The artist displays a good understanding of values. The hand shadow across the rear arm could be a little lighter as it moves across the wrist. Also the shadow on the wall and floor should become darker (cast shadow) as it moves closer to the body.
Alteration/Variation/Rhythm:
Great gesture and movement. The head/hair seems to cause a little confusion to my eye. It doesn’t look right; perhaps showing a little of the face will help line it up with the angle of the spine and the right arm.
Edges/Shapes:
Since this is a photo-realistic painting, hard edges dominate in defining the outer edges of the figure. Within the figure, shadow shapes use soft edges to define the turning forms. Very nicely done. If there were more background shapes included in this painting, it would be nice to see some lost and found edges that tied the figure to the background shapes.
Color:
Monochromatic. A great way to learn and practice form, shadows and values without worrying about color. Very good control of values in this painting,
Other:
Very good job in creating a realistic figure. Excellent job in modeling the shadows within the figure to create a 3D look.
Joe MacKechnie, NWWS
"Mommy's Hat"
by Don Harvie
Critique by Doreen Lundstedt
DESIGN/COMPOSITION:
My first impression of your image is one of a charming child in a special moment. I am certain that this painting will have a long history as a family memento of this particular little girl and the 'mommie' symbol in the hat.
In looking critically at the painting I see more connection to a still life than a figure...a large hat on a hat stand (child) and a collection of scattered small shapes on the dresser top. I assume that a photo was the basis for the composition? I would suggest further exploration on the little girl figure in the composition. I would also suggest this painting might be the first of a series. Do not change this painting! I would like to see more of the little girl's form and action, less hat. Perhaps a mirror in the background to reflect her image or a 3/4 view with a suggestion of her face, arm, hand. Her shoes are beautifully drawn and are the only suggestion of form.
VALUE / CONTRAST:
I would like to see more middle values. The child /hat/ table top is nearly white. The dresser/ rug is very dark making the figure look like a cutout against the dark background. The stockings are nicely integrated with the rug. The lightest edge of the hat could be integrated with the white marble area to allow background/ foreground to merge.
ALTERATION / VARIATION / RHYTHM:
The organic shapes in the hat, child, rug pattern contrast nicely with the geometric horizontals in the background.
EDGES / SHAPES:
The outer edges of the painting are nearly the same in color and value except for the relief of the white dresser top. The left edge might be lightened a little more leaving the right edge the darkest. The shape of the skirt is a bit blocky to suggest the shape of the child within.
COLOR:
The hat becomes the point of interest as the brightest most forward color. Nice repetition in the table top pieces and the skirt shadows. The subtle color repeated in the rug pattern is wonderful.
OTHER:
Don has a fine ability in drawing as well as paint/brush handling as in the subtle color changes of the rug and form of the skirt. The subject of the figure is the most difficult. I might suggest Arne Westerman's book, "Paint Watercolors Filled With Life and Energy" for a look at his compositions and integration of background and figure. Please know this is only one person's impression of your painting. If some of what I write seems negative I also see much skill in your ability.
Sincerly, Doreen Lindstedt
Spiritual Chores
by Gayle Weisfield
Critique by Ken Duffin, NWWS
First of all, it's a very nice piece. The design and composition are quite good. Colors are somber, but that may be the mood you wanted to convey.
Drawing is my main concern. The background is okay. The perspective seems right. The foreground main interest is vague. I am not sure what is going on. I think more definition in the drawing of the candles might help. The figure needs to be better drawn, since it is the center of interest. Perhaps a live model or scrap photo might be needed.
It is very original and does make a statement.
Ken Duffin, NWWS