Traunstein, Traunsee, Traunkirchen

Usually when you finish an artwork you think, I could have done something differently, better, more carefully, but this time I am really rather pleased with this work. The Lino print features Traunkirchen on Traunsee. In the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria. The work is about 45cm by 65cm the most detailed piece I have completed. I like the detail rather than just lines but I guess different designs require different techniques. Still needs a little clean up here and there but basically finished.

Quick note, at the end of July, Firestation Print Studio will be open for Open House Melbourne, so come along and have a look how printing making happens.

Van Gogh at the NGV

The National Gallery of Victoria currently has a lovely exhibition of Van Gogh’s work. It was wonderful to see these beautiful works, especially seeing some that are not so well recognised. We all know; Sunflowers, Starry Night and his Yellow House but to see his lovely pen and ink drawings with the detailed line work which later becomes his busy brush strokes, it was great to see the progression.

Some will argue ‘what is so special about VanGogh’s work?’ I love them. I love the colour. What often comes across as simplicity is actually full of detail, colour, emotion and warmth. It just makes you think what might have been. It was wonderful to look at the work and think he was once standing infront of those paintings too.

It is a pity that he was not appreciated when he was alive. It can take a long time for an artist’s work to be understood, appreciated and accepted. Maybe we should take more care of our artists. Sometimes they are trying to convey a message and at other times looking at an artwork is just about enjoying the moment and it makes you feel good.

Thanks to the NGV for bringing this beautiful work to us.

Watercolour

I have been having a play with watercolour painting after doing the class with a Mark Dober. It really is enjoyable and relaxing, especially after a day teaching art. I like the idea of trying to loosen up the painting and not worry too much about everything having to be perfect. It is a much more painterly approach, giving an impression of the scene rather than an exact rendering. I can’t help myself though and do feel the need to add layers of pattern detail. I also know I need give more strength to my colours as often everthing seems to have the same intensity so that is something definitely to work on.

Three of these are local scenes from walks around the area, the fourth is supposed to be Litzlberg Island in Attersee.

Each piece is about learning and trialling the technique, you can’t be to precious about your art when learning as it is very rare that the final piece will live up to the scene you have in you head but it is all good practise.