Painting Intuitively

                                                                                                                                               

I have been working on several large pieces trying to allow the paint and the process to retain their importance while allowing the universe to have input into the image.  This  involves applying colors without any preconceived outcome in mind.  At first I try to work freely responding quickly to the paint.  I choose colors that I find interesting when placed beside each other and also when mixed together.  For this painting, I chose Magenta, Yellow-green, and Blue-violet.  I mixed muted colors and tints from these colors to create options for contrast in value and intensity.  Of course I have repainted some sections, usually by pouring another paint over the one underneath.  There is very little brushwork involved in the beginning.  I have added a little stronger yellow-green and cooler muted blue violet.  I am at the stage of waiting for inspiration on what to do next while working on another painting. I like the top part of the painting, but am not sure it I want it to retain such an obvious Landscape feel.  Landscape is my comfort zone, so I may want to develop the bottom more to move away from such an obvious suggestion.   Right now waiting is important. (Feel free to comment and make suggestions)

New Painting Working Large

New Painting

 When in college I was experimenting with various types of watermedia on paper and bought a large roll of WC paper, 51 inches by 10 yards.  So finally I've challenged myself to use this paper.  This piece is about 36 X 42 inches, fluid acrylic, with thin layers and washes.

For several years I have been approaching painting with the idea of following where the paint or universe or accident leads me.  I like the icy greens and the soft contrast of the reds.  Working large and loose is a challenge.   I have had trouble finding a large, rigid, lightweight board for mounting while working. For some reason, I thought Rigid Foamcore came in 40 X 60 inch size.  I am using a lot more paint and larger brushes.  Keeping it wet for a long period is difficult.  While I am working in one area something unexpected & undesirable happens in another area.  I think I have finally solved most of the problems and am happy with the final product. I have 3 more large pieces in progress.  Challenging and fulfilling.

Color From a Found Object

Spontaneous Landscape Using Colors From a Found Object

This 5 X 7 inch painting was done using fluid acrylics, without a reference photo, to demonstrate one of the color exercises in my Color Workshop. For the painting I chose colors from a silk scarf.

Participant in Memories and Mementos, recent workshop.

Frances Rhone focused on her cousin who was a well-known radio personality on Louisiana Hayride. 

 5 Johns by Jane Burson

Jane used collage, stamping and transfer to create a piece about 5 generations of John Bursons.  When finished, the work will be a treasured family piece. 

Memories and Mementos workshop

Art work by Abigail Edwards 

Abigail created a rich textural background with stamps and layering color. The under-painting works well with the collage of her grandmother and various papers.

Work in Progress by Tommie Sue Slaughter

This work is by one of the participants in my recent workshop, Memories and Mementos, exploring the use of photo transfer and other mixed media techniques.  Slaughter transferred a photo of her grandchildren under an umbrella and some of their drawings.  The work is unfinished, but she achieved a rich textural surface and illusive images that work well. 

Memories and Mementos Workshop 

Layering collage over photo transfer and multiple layered transfers demo.

Work in Progress by Margaret Ellerman 

Margaret explored layering one transfer over another.  Both transfers are on a rich surface composed of collage and stamping on stretched canvas. 

Workshop Memories and Mementos

Just finished a great workshop on mixed media techniques at the Hamilton House Inn in West Monroe. Great group! Great Space (events center & inn). This group explored the use of photo transfer, collage, stamping and stenciling, creating patterns and coloring papers.

6 - Primary Color Palette

Peggy practices using the 6 - Primary Color Palette

A painting done in the February 2017 workshop by one of the participants.

Mixed Media Workshop

Rising Tides and Setting Suns, Mixed Media

The pelicans in this painting were transfers from some of my drawings.  With practice I have been able to transfer images in a seamless manner.  The pelicans appear to be drawings.  Practice transfer in my  workshop, Memories and Mementos June 5, 6, 7.  For more information contact me at dmcgee09@comcast.net

Workshop form is on Workshops page (sidebar).

Mixed Media Workshop June 5, 6, 7

Jessica Illuminated, Mixed Media, 22 X 16 inches

There are many mixed media techniques which can be used to add interest to art works.  This painting uses Transfer and Gold-leaf.  To learn more register for my workshop Memories and Mementos, June 5, 6, 7, 2017. For more info contact me at dmcgee09@comcast.net
For workshop form, click on Workshop page (see sidebar).

Painting Color & Value Shapes Demo from February 2017 workshop

2017 Workshops Donna McGee

Workshops 2017

February 27, 28, March 1, 2017
Guided Study Workshop (3 days)
This workshop provides time for students to work with an experienced painting instructor using the medium of their choice.  Some brief demonstrations of color mixing and suggested exercises will be provided by the instructor. Emphasis is on color mixing, choosing color harmonies, composition and developing skill with various techniques.  Workshop Location: River Gallery, 308 Trenton St, West Monroe, LA 71291, 318 372 4480 (W- SA).  Registration Contact: Margaret Ellerman, mellerman711@gmail.com or Anne Eberle, annerte@comcast.net.  Questions: Donna McGee, dmcgee09@comcast.net.

Jane, participant in previous workshop

June 5, 6 ,7, 2017

Memories and Mementos Workshop (3 days)

Use your precious photos and keepsakes to create art that you can hang in your home or give as special gifts to family.  Participants will learn to use transfer, collage, stencils, stamps and other mixed media techniques to create art works.  No drawing or painting skills are necessary for this workshop.  
The only skills needed are a creative heart, patience, and the ability to follow instructions. Workshop Location: Hamilton House Inn, 318 Trenton St, West Monroe, LA 71291.  Registration Contact: Donna McGee, dmcgee09@comcast.net or Margaret Ellerman, mellerman711@gmail.com.  Questions: Donna McGee, dmcgee09@comcast.net.

Mamaw's Diary, Mixed Media