Thursday, November 05, 2009

Peonys in Buds


"Peonys in Buds"
14"x11"
oil on linen

Over the weekend I was finishing several different still lifes and also repairing this painting which I liked but not quite, know what I mean? I really wanted the peonys to pop and didn't feel they were as strong in the original painting as they could be. So what I decided to do was compress the value in the background as well as go a bit darker and cooler. Also I was more decisive with the lighting on the surface which the vase sits. Now I'm happy with it. Which version do you prefer?








7 comments:

Karen said...

They've emerged from their haziness and now they (and the design) are strong, simple, and clear.

Kathleen Krucoff said...

Wow, I like them both, but I can see a dramatic difference in the top one. I think you achieved what you wanted Susan. Lovely work.

susan hong-sammons said...

Hey Karen,Hello Kathleen
Yes! thank you for saying so. That's what I wanted and was trying to have happen. So nice to have a bit of confirmation.

Lori Margulies said...

Beautiful peonies Susan. They are my favorite flower. The painting was gorgeous with the soft background but the subject is now popping off the background and all of the vibrant details of the flowers and the vase are shown off! Lori

michelle said...

thanks for stopping in at our POBL blog site and your lovely comment. I love your color sense and lost and found edges. Beautiful work.

susan hong-sammons said...

Hi Lori,
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for taking the time to leave me a bit of feedback. Blogging has open doors to meeting so many talented artists and people.
happy art-making!!!

Jill Berry said...

Yes, great improvements were made.
Interesting concept- compress the background. The great final version is richer in color and strategically illuminated.
Very nice work!