Portrait of Aubree

[Chantal Sulkow]

Thank you, Chris and Denise!

Here is a detail of Aubree's eyes and nose. Unfortunately, I have no in-process photos from the work I did on this- in fact, I have never taken in-process photos! Also, this particular painting was very much part of a learning/workshop experience and at the time, I had no idea where it would end up.

Recently, I have begun scanning my preliminary drawings before I lay the paint down- that is, when my drawing is executed with dry media such as a pastel pencil, which is one of my favorite tools for starting the process. When I do a brush drawing, if the paint dries before the next stage, I also try for a scan. I like the idea of saving the drawing in case I don't like the way things work out and I want to back track and begin again- if I was happy with my original drawing, I don't have to re-do that step.

I am also researching trading in my traditional camera for a digital, which would make things much easier for me in that respect. I think it would actually be instructive for me to look back and examine the way I work. Like looking at one's work in a mirror (something I always conveniently forget to do!), this is something that seems helpful in constructive self-criticism!