Yes, I’m a bit behind in the “30 in 30” challenge, but I have a solid excuse: I came down with the flu on Friday, and haven’t had the energy to paint since then.

Actually, that’s not entirely true.  I did start a painting on Friday, but I was a) too sick to finish it, and b) so wrapped up in the details that I felt it deserved to be done properly.  I even tried to finish it Saturday night, but there’s still so much work to be done.  You can see a WIP of it on my Instagram feed.

This also highlights a particular problem I’m having with the “30 in 30” challenge: when given the opportunity, I will always hone in on the details.  But of course, a finished portrait has to take more into account than eyelashes or the shine on the lips.  You have to pay attention to the Big Picture.  Also, each painting ends up taking WAY too long!

For today’s painting, I forced myself to keep a more loose and “sketchy” look.  I still haven’t achieved it to my satisfaction, but I’m getting there!

What works for me:

• the limited colour palette
• the “patchier”, less refined paint strokes
• her blue hair, just because

What doesn’t work for me:

• the brush strokes of the hair, but then, you know how I hate dealing with hair…

What I learned with this painting:

• Ultra Matte Medium is great, but maybe what I really need is Ultra Matte Gel?

Save