Elusive20"x16"
Above is my latest piece, done using Neocolor II watersoluble pastels and colored pencil on Rtistx 420 panel. This is a more realistic interpretation of the scene I used for Botanical Lace, in which I made the leaves look more abstract to fit the theme. I find this piece more somber than Botanical Lace, but it still fits my style. I am very interested in hearing any opinions on the two pieces!
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11 comments:
Hi Holly!
Since you asked for some comments on this I'll be brave and throw my two cents in. ;)
First and foremost I find both pieces to be very, very well done. If I were to simplify things when comparing the two I find that "Botanical Lace" elicits the word "pretty" whereas "Elusive" elicits the word "provocative". Between the two I think "Elusive" is my preference because of the pose and colour choices it seems like there's a story to that piece and I want to know more when looking at it.
I'll leave it at that because I don't want to monopolize your comment section. Both are very well done and congrats on all your artistic accomplishments so far, your work is fantastic! :)
Rita,
Thank you for your thoughtful response! I can see what you mean about Elusive having more of a story. A couple of people have e-mailed me saying that they find it to be more depressing though, and don't like it as much for that reason...
Thanks again for your response and compliment on my work!
Really nice, Holly! I like seeing your variations on a theme with these self portraits.
"Elusive" would be my favorite, if you forced me to pick! What I find more appealing there is the depth and more interesting composition you've created with the seated pose, and the rock leading back to the foliage.
"Autumn Lace" and "Botanical Lace" are both quite lovely as well. You've made a joyful connection between the lace and the backgrounds!
Thank you, Liz!
Interesting - it seems so far that artists prefer Elusive, while friends and family prefer Botanical Lace.
Okay, Holly, I will through in my comments! I prefer Elusive as well. To me it has more accessible emotional content. The Botanical Lace is pretty and well done, but has less depth in the set up as well (meaning the way the composition kind of keeps one at bay, whereas in Elusive, you are drawn in more by the set up, as well as the mood).
I'll be curious to see what you do next!
Holly, they are both exemplary, but I like the natural elements in 'Elusive' better than the more abstract foliage in 'Botanical Lace'.
Hi Holly, interesting comments...
You have done a wonderful job on both Botanical Lace and Elusive!
I seem to be having a different response to Botanical Lace than some of your other viewers. Yes it is a pretty picture but I also think it has depth as well as a story. I think you have done an excellent job in conveying mystery and mood. I love the facial expression you chose. For me, the piece is captivating as the viewer is left questioning what is on your mind. I also really like what you did with the stylized leaves.
I get what people are saying about Elusive having a story and depth, but for me, I find that Botanical Lace does as well.
I look forward to seeing what you create next!
Thank you all for your comments!
Debbi, I think I know what you mean about Botanical Lace "keeping one at bay" because the background is more like wallpaper or something.
Deborah, I agree that the natural background in Elusive is more interesting, and it was definitely more work! I could let my mind wander more while working on Botanical Lace.
Teresa, I was trying to create a dramatic piece with Botanical Lace, and I'm glad you like it too!
I really appreciate all of these comments. I am working on a commission next, but may be doing some more self-portraits shortly after.
Holly,
both portaits are beautifull as well as original and your question tough to answer! After reflection though I would have to say "Elusive" to be the one I prefer. You have achieved depth trough technical skill and strong composition as well as having created a pensive, serene atmosphere through a clever pose and a beautiful palette.
"Elusive" is quite simply an excellent self-portrait!
Hi Holly, I have been enjoying all of your recent self portraits. I love that they are on a different level than a "traditional", looks just like you portrait. I find it difficult to choose any over another, appreciating that each is meant to evoke a different emotion, and all successfully!
I will say that both pieces in the discussion are on the elusive side to me. In Elusive, although it is the figure facing forward and open arms, the turned away gaze and the choice of the more realistic, subdued colors gives it a darkness. In Botanical Lace, I still get an elusive feeling. Although the colors are brighter, clearer and the images more stylized, the figure has her back to the viewer and is looking down and away. I think both pieces have lots of emotional content, making them both successful. Great job all around. I also can't wait to see more!
Sheona, you write so eloquently - you sound like a professional art critic! Thank you for your input and the compliment on my art.
Kathy, thank you! Self-portraits are very convenient, and I have fun posing for them. I can be shy, so maybe that's why both look somewhat "elusive". Thanks for the input!
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