In this concentration I focused largely on design to bring across the emotion of "smug." First of all, I tried a new approach by dividing the piece into 4 squares. I incorporated a gradation structure with black-and-white triangles in two of them. With this structure I also thought about manipulating space in two ways: 1) using gradation to make it seem like the structure is receding into space, and 2) creating different-sized triangles to give the illusion of curved lines. In the other two squares I did two different portraits of the subject (good job Brett) in different "smug" positions, with high (and scary-looking) contrast. The structures are supposed to reflect "smug" by the high "lofty" effect of them receding into space. After the critique I corrected issues in both faces (value, making the expression look more smug) and incorporated lines extending out from the structure to make it mesh with the rest of the work. I feel like the faces still need some work to make the whole effect more "loose" (with brushstrokes, etc.) to emphasize the carefree, indifferent aspect of being smug.
Love the use of the graphic element in this piece.
ReplyDeleteJanine (MICA)
Daniel- Great job! I really appreciate your risk-taking to include not one but two portraits in this piece. The black and white gradation definitely makes the work much more interesting and evocative. There is obvious evidence of thinking and confidence in the piece and it is imaginative and inventive. A couple of suggestions. If you are going to continue to paint, I think you should get better brushes. I can see that some of your edges are marred by the brush. I recommend the Richard Simmons titanium brushes and you can get them at A.C Moore. Now that I look at your image on the website, I also think that you could bring in some of the white gradation design over into the portraits - just a thought to add greater unity to the work. Finally, I like the idea we talked about in the last critique - to have the portraits begin to break through the structures as I think that would be really interesting. You have consistently worked at a high level for each project and have much to be proud of. Good job.
ReplyDelete