THE JOY OF STRETCHING YOUR CREATIVE MIND...

It was time to challenge myself in the very best way. I have always been afraid to even TRY to draw a face. I have taken the lazy way out in the past and the time was now to do this. With encouragement and some direction from my dear Aunt in New Mexico, a fabulous watercolorist, I got out paper and pencil and went for it. I am really quite happy with my first efforts! I mean, REALLY happy!

Now, how to use these faces? I made some speciality paper, using stamps I had made as well as some commercial ones. I made black paper with white designs, white paper with black designs, some tan pieces and some gold.

I laid down some black acrylic paint on parchment paper and then drew a basic form with white gesso.

Using the papers I had made, I laid down random pieces to cover the form. As you look at the next few photographs, you will see how the look changes as I continue to add papers. Eventually, there was a fleur de lis on her chest that got covered up and the look is much better. This collage process is quite forgiving as you can add and cover up at will.

Almost finished, but not quite! Moving and removing areas as I get comfortable with her, I added an olive green stencil in the Background, and then with my fingers and some dove gray paint, I muted it. This collage stuff is fun!

Oh yes, the second piece is underway.......