Sunday, April 19, 2009

Under the Trees


In the last week, I started to read a book I always wanted to read, Modern Painters by John Ruskin.   He wrote, "It is far more difficult to be simple than to be complicated; far more difficult to sacrifice skill and cease exertion in the proper place, than to expend both indiscriminately."  The above two pastels were done outside at the same location in Washington Crossing Park this weekend.  I am not satisfied with either.  However, I have learned from both exercises.   I need to apply Ruskin's advice when working outside.

3 comments:

Casey Klahn said...

I am struck by these. I hope you find your satisfaction with them - I like them!

Very true about simplicity - and the tyranny of skill.

Rosemary Lewis said...

I really like the first one especially - nice bold shapes and reflected light on the trunks

Bob Lafond said...

Casey and RL, Thank you for your comments. I plan on doing second versions of both in a day or so.

Bob