In today’s session we explore the shape and color of Maple leaves.
We begin by taking a look at the types of shapes and margins (edges) of several leaves, and spend some time creating timed sketches (2 to 3 minutes each) using different mediums and techniques. Some of these sketches are Blind contour sketches which allow us to really observe our subject a little more intensely.
In our final exercise we put it all together. Working from a reference photo we use a pencil sketch to set up our composition. After looking at the color scheme, we apply a light wash of cool and warm yellow with the intention to work from light to dark and from yellows to deep reds and darker browns in several layers. Mostly working wet on wet - we try to get lost in the intimacy of water, pigment, brush, paper and self -
Here is a quick time lapse of the process.