Fire Dancer
9" x 12"
acrylic on paper
Back to painting this week, I was trying a technique in Mary Todd Beam’s new book The Creative Edge: Exercises to Celebrate Your Creative Self using pieces of plastic to make rock-like texture. When I tilted this first try, I immediately saw a figure, perhaps a tribal dancer wearing an elaborate animal costume, holding a flaming torch.
Right now, I am of two minds—add some more defining facial features (but I'm not confident or comfortable drawing people!) or leave it as an abstract figure.
What do you think?
I love the bold colors and textures! And I see the tribal dancer figure, too. I think you should leave it abstract and organic, and not try to add facial features. It's perfect just as it is!
ReplyDeleteMe again! When you have a chance, be sure to stop by my blog to pick up the One Lovely Blog Award I've given you!
ReplyDeleteThank you for your feedback on my painting, Angela, and double thanks for giving me the One Lovely Blog award!
ReplyDeleteI like this as an abstract, it works well. Some detail is left to the viewer's discretion, while the work itself shows motion and life. I clicked over from Angela's blog, enjoyed browsing here!
ReplyDeleteHope I'm not too late to throw in my 2 cents worth. I would like best without the facial features. It is a strong piece with lots of energy.
ReplyDeleteI have an older book by Mary Todd Beam. Perhaps I should check out the new one.
Thank you for your suggestion, Joanne. That was my gut feeling, but I often ponder taking pieces further. Maybe that is the Inner Critic talking, not the Freespirtited Muse! Thanks for visiting.
ReplyDeleteHi Kim, thanks so much for visiting. I’m so glad you also think it’s better left abstract. I do like leaving some things to the imagination but also have a fear of over-working a piece. You might enjoy the new book; Mary Todd Beam loves experimenting!