Friday, December 3, 2010

W.I.P. completed!

After months of second guessing myself on the choice of reference photos, rainbows of colors, techniques and just deciding how to execute this massive size, I can finally say with a huge smile on my face...."I am completely pleased and giddy over this painting!" There are no regrets, if only, or maybes.
I have learned so much about myself in this painting. I was afraid to work with such an enormous size since it's been a while and yet it's my largest ever. I have learned to trust myself with what I know and don't be afraid to try new things. I tell my students that in color pencil most mistakes can be corrected and don't be afraid to try new colors. I've discovered that during the painting while I have engaged in softer and relaxed techniques, so has my life paralleled the painting. I have learned to let go, don't be so critical, I can't control everyone or anything. I can't protect my children forever but I can give them the knowledge of wisdom and faith. Relish the good times and memories. The past can not be changed and the future holds boundless promises and successes if we allow them.
The title of the painting is withheld until the client receives it. (hint...it will be" ___'s Tulips"..the client's daughter's name). I honestly can't wait to see the expression on their faces! I hope they like it.
Now it will be off to making chocolates and cookies for Christmas. It's a tradition I look forward to every year with my kids!

10 comments:

Karen Martin Sampson said...

This came out beautifully! You should feel so proud and wonderful about it - congratulations! BTW, how big is it? You mentioned it was your largest piece but did not say what exactly the size is. Makes me want to get back to coloured pencil again (I was in The Best of Colored Pencil II way back when). Looking forward to your next piece.

Dianna Wallace Soisson said...

Thanks Karen. I am gleefully happy! This piece is 27 x 38.

What an accomplishment...in the Best of...!!! Congratulations!! I'm going to have to check it out! Merry Christmas!

Debbi said...

Well have lots of fun making cookies and chocolates. You deserve it! what a tour de force of a drawing. Hat's off to you Diana.

Anonymous said...

Absolutely beautiful work!

Dianna Wallace Soisson said...

Thank you Debbi and Scott and by the way Debbi, it now seems like Christmas with the smells of baking in the kitchen!
After the holidays I'll be back to drawing more water scenes though I haven't chosen a reference photo yet.

Colette Theriault said...

wow!!! I am speechless Dianna!!! Very, very beautiful work! I think I said that before?!lol May I ask if you used a solvent and which one you use/prefer? Happy Holidays! Colette

Dianna Wallace Soisson said...

Thanks Colette! I use turpenoid VERY sparingly. I love the blending it does for me but I didn't use it through the entire painting. I wanted some look of texture. Merry Christmas!!

Amy said...

I love it Mrs. Soisson! I was way beyond suprised walking into my room this afternoon. It is absolutely beautiful! The huge scale and vibrant colors make it absolutely breathtaking. This drawing will continue to remind me of so many wonderful memories of my time in Holland. Thank you so much!

Dianna Wallace Soisson said...

Ahhh, my dear Amy....I'm so happy that you like it!!! You're parents gave you something that will last forever and continue to bring memories throughout your successful life! May God bless you and congratulations on your graduation from Hope College!!! Please let me know when and where grad school will be.
I can now officially entitle the painting "Amy's Tulips"!! Yay!!

Unknown said...

Wow is that gorgeous!!! & huge!!!