Leaning Female Figure

Still practicing the figure in watercolor. I recently took several paintings to show a friend whom I respect as both an artist and critic. Among other things, he suggested I try to unite my backgrounds with the figures by sharing the lighter, fleshy hues a bit more. This was painted soon after, and yes, I think it's an improvement. I'm particularly happy with the pillow and stool.

Standing Female

It was great to return to figure drawing at Manifest this Tuesday after a 6-month hiatus. I'm struggling with showing subtle modulations of form, but I like the looseness. For the first time, I employed opaque white. I like it on the braid in back, not so much on the shoulder. I think I need to be less of a purist —but judiciously so.

Reclining Female

Last week was my first figure drawing session since mid-December. I was dreading the return to the art horse after being away so long. Maybe my low expectations gave me some added comfort, because I felt surprisingly relaxed throughout the short poses. I then painted this watercolor sketch of the reclining model —no face, which makes things considerably easier.

I'm thinking of going back into it. Not sure.