I bought this cow creamer a while ago, but had trouble fitting its long shape into a still-life. Putting the tipped over cup behind it offered the composition a similar shape which I think makes it work. That same cup with the spoon sticking out of it plus the curving and waving fabric added a lot of movement to the composition which was a lot of fun. That movement almost animates the rest of the objects, which makes it seem like the cow creamer is threatening to walk out of the composition. Which makes me think... if personification is "the attribution of a personal nature or character to inanimate objects" then is this animalification?
I tried something of a new technique on the background. Since I was using a grey board and I wanted a grey background, I laid down a colored pencil the same color as the board: Dove Grey Coloursoft. This gave me a smooth texture to smudge other greys into by first scribbling them on, then swirling them around with a 1/2 inch bristle brush. I like the effect and it took less time than usual.
Sorry for the blurry photographs (like usual) and you can click on them to see it larger.
8 comments:
It definitely looks like that cow is boldly stepping forward out of the frame! I love how it lends a sense of movement to the whole piece.
Do you have difficulty selling long narrow pieces like this? My gallery has discouraged me from that format, but I really like it. Would love to hear how it does for you.
I love the blue and love it all Nicole
We have one of those moo cows in my family collection I have absolutely loved it alway since being a child :)
Thanks Kim! Actually I've sold a lot in this format. One time even 3 to one person! The size is 6" x 18" so it isn't too wide.
Thanks Belinda!
Love this piece, Nicole. But I love all of this series! I really love the background and how simple you make it sound to create.
The background looks awesome and very painterly for colored pencil. Just love the teapot and creamer -- very nice!
Thanks Kathy! It was really easy... I haven't varnished it yet - so I am hoping it holds up to the varnish. I may cover it in clear prismacolor blender before I spray - sometimes the varnish make thin layers disappear.
Thank you Visions!
I bought the same cow pitcher a few months ago and have been thinking about fitting it into a still life! Yours is really nice and I always like the long horizontal format.
Thanks Kendra!!! I can't seem to get away from this format - it is just too much fun.
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