While waiting for the pictures for my next commissions, I decided to paint a 'for fun' painting of jellyfish. I loved the picture when I saw it, and I wanted to paint it right away. I could instantly tell it would be a great way for me to practice glazing (multiple washes of color to create an area of rich, vibrant, and smooth color), masking and blending. I would also be able to practice painting a subject that didn't have eyes.
And, all in all, I did get to practice those things. This painting really challenged me. I spent a lot more time on it than I do most commissions. And, it didn't turn out. I was pretty bummed at first. Having spent so much time on it and having had my vision of a bright, captivating jellyfish painting not realized was hard.
But I learned so much! And I had so much fun painting this that I'm still glad I did it. Also, in my search for solace during my post-painting bummed-ness, I read two different articles that really encouraged me. They talked about how every artist has work that doesn't turn out and times when painting doesn't come easily. The biggest lesson I learned is that I can't let one failed painting, or hundreds, get to me. Art is a process, and I love it. The ups are great, and the downs are wonderful learning opportunities. I can't wait to keep painting!
And, a special shout out to my favorite person, who is the most encouraging and supportive of all my endeavors I wouldn't be this excited about painting if it wasn't for you!
Here are the process pictures of the jellyfish. This painting was mainly unsuccessful because I went overboard in the end with red, and ended up with a muddy, washed out looking middle. Also, my blue glazes weren't completely smooth and too dark.
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