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A Busy Lizzy's Fate

Submit an Entry: May 2010 Painting Project: Abstracted Flower

From MariaLarkin

A Busy Lizzy's Fate

A Busy Lizzy's Fate.

Title and Medium

Abstract Busy Lizzy, done in chalk pastels. Size A3 - 12" x 16".

Artist's Statement

This picture was inspired by a wilting Busy Lizzy plant which I was attempting to nurture back to life. It had beautiful pinky red flowers but the leaves were wilting and fading and taking on all sorts of sad shapes, though there was variation in their colour.

It was very quick and easy to do; so much so that I fear I overdid it. In the end the plant just expired and the lovely red flowers fell off. I think I gave it too much water. I never was very green fingered...

What I'd Do Differently

  • On reflection I think I could have applied some different shapes. All the shapes in this picture are similar but they do vary in size.
  • I would also like to try making a similar composition using acrylic paints.
  • I would like to ask if it is possible to mix a decent turquoise as it is something I have been unable to achieve. I have come to the conclusion that it has to be bought ready mixed.

Marion Boddy-Evans, Painting Guide, says:

Turquoise is a tricky color to mix, as depending on which blue and green you're using, the results can be so different. It's worth spending some time painting up a chart with mixtures of all your blues and green (transparent and opague), plus varying quantities of white, making notes of what and how much is in each mix. Or, if it's a color you're using a lot, trying various brands of ready-made turquoise to see which you like best.

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