The Crossing
12×12 inches
Acrylic on gallery wrap canvas
©2019 Lucinda Howe
The day after Larry Moore’s workshop, I participated in a plein air painting event in Winnsboro, SC. Barbara Yongue sponsored the event in conjunction with Oil Painters of America. The plan for the event was to have canvases stamped in the morning and paint anywhere outside. We were to return paintings by 3:00 pm for judging by Larry Moore.
I chose a location in downtown Winnsboro behind some of the stores. For safety sake, I set up near the Farmer’s Market and in sight of another painter. It can be a challenge to paint where there is a lot of traffic and people want to chat. But, it’s also a good idea not to choose an isolated area.
Thinking about what to paint, I noticed interesting shadow shapes on the backs of the stores. In the other direction, there was a railroad bordered by tree and building shapes. I started two paintings but decided to focus on the railroad.
The Crossing
(converted to value study)
12×12 inches
Acrylic on gallery wrap canvas
©2019 Lucinda Howe
Remembering what Larry taught the day before, I focused on the pattern of light and dark. I exaggerated the colors for fun. When I was almost finished, I wanted to check my value pattern. I took a photo with my phone and converted the photo black and white. I felt the design was understandable without the color, so I added a few details and called it done.
Have you tried converting your painting to black and white to check the values? Do you think this is a useful exercise?
8 Comments
How do you change an iPhone photo to black and white?
Open the photo. Go to Edit, then Filters, then Mono.
This is an excellent method of record keeping for oneself for evaluation and review, as well as for instruction. I have also used a piece of red acetate to check the values of what I find myself drawing and painting when “technology” has been unavailable. The disadvantage being a lack of record for comparison at a later date. Thank you for sharing the information and techniques you have learned from your workshop with Larry Moore.
Thanks. I’m glad to be able to share what I’m learning.
Hi Cindy,
I really like this painting and the softness of the image even with the bright colors you favor. Good suggestion about the value check.
Thanks, Gail.
I heard about checking the values by taking a photo but never did it. your example prompts me to try it. thank you !
You’re welcome. Hope you find that useful.