Flat Brush Painted Sketch of Tangerines

by Lisa Larrabee

I gave this assignment for a 4"x4" value study painted with a 3/4"-1" flat brush in 50 strokes or less. Since I rarely use a flat brush, I decided I could benefit from the challenge also. The goal was to use deliberate thoughtful brushstrokes, but I confess I lost count. It was completed in less than 30 minutes and was fun to play in a different style.

~ Lisa

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Sketchbook: Self-portrait Lift-out Technique

by Lisa Larrabee

I started this sketch with an overall value and then began lifting out highlights with a kneaded eraser.  Being able to push and pull the values felt much more like painting.  I think it made a significant difference over the last attempt.  That, and a more defined light source (usually a good idea).

~ Lisa

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Sketchbook: Zipper & Key

by Lisa Larrabee

I am working on sketching everyday.  It's funny how it always used to feel like an assignment (because it was!).  Now, I am just enjoying myself.

~ Lisa

Sketchbook: Tangerines

by Lisa Larrabee

You have probably heard the best way to improve as an artist is to practice.  Paint or draw everyday.  Work from life.  Study.  Observe.  Repeat.  This is certainly not news.  In spite of this advice, I have never been good about keeping a sketchbook.  I always loved the idea, but never really committed to it (except to jot down thumbnails for future paintings).  I want to make this my new habit.  I hope to build some momentum by posting sketches with regularity.  If you don't already, I encourage you to keep a sketchbook too.  Best of luck!

~ Lisa

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"Oil Out" for Color

by Lisa Larrabee

Perdendosi
Oil  16" x 12"
artist Lisa Larrabee

I am continuously experimenting with how to paint trees.  Previously, I have shown the process to define shapes and branches through negative space painting.  In this example, I decided to show a softer technique, because I currently have students who are discovering that trees can be a significant challenge to paint.

I also want to show the tremendous benefit of oiling out your painting to create an even finish and bring out the true colors of the painting.

I began by roughly painting in the colors and shapes where I saw them.  Significant branches were included, but all other detail was left out.

Wyatt Painting Stages Video

by Lisa Larrabee

Wyatt was recently selected to be a finalist in the Richeson 75 International 2013 Small Works competition.  Although I have shared photos of the stages with descriptions of the technique used, I love watching one phase merge into the next.  I decided to play around with a little video editing.  I hope you enjoy it!

~ Lisa

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Baby Wyatt Portrait in Oil

by Lisa Larrabee

Wyatt
oil  6" x 6"
Richeson 75 International
Small Works finalist

I was looking forward to working on this painting for several reasons.  First, I loved the picture and I was excited to create the painting for his parents. Second, I wanted to play with the process and try out some variations on a technique that is fairly new to me.  I thought I might try be able to use this technique on an upcoming painting on a much larger scale.  It was time to play!