Alsace Bleu by Carole Anderson

Photo © Carole Anderson

"Alsace Bleu" by Carole Anderson. 18x22.5cm (7x9"). Mixed Media

From the Artist: I have moved to the Alsace region of France from San Diego, USA. I picked this bleu from my boyfriend's front yard where they grow pretty much as weeds. The whole thing came up, bulb and all. The flowers change their appearance every day.

I have not much experience with the subject nor with mixed media, (I left most of my art supplies back home). I had a real struggle with the background color. Not quite sure if I am satisfied yet with my solution.

From the Painting Guide: What glorious curves those thin leaves make! You've arranged them into a beautiful composition, filling up the space and leading the eye around. At the same time the glass provides an anchor for the flower and a balance for the blue of the bloom itself.

Things to Consider When Looking at This Painting:
Shadows: The shadows in this still-life setup are a perfect example of how it can be far easier to paint from life than from imagination. You've got them right in front of you, creating visually interesting lines in the composition, you just need to "copy" them. Notice how the artist has painted the shadows in different tones, some darker than others. This stops the central part of the painting becoming too busy, but the hint of a shadow is still there and pulls your eye in for a closer look.