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Sunday, January 10, 2010

Firestone Farm - Krista

I created this sketch from a photo I took in the late 1980's.  It has remained a favorite photo because I still visit this place even today.



Painting #7 of 100
Watercolor, 7 x 9", Aquabee sketchbook, 90 lb.



Back then, I took the photograph because I was captivated by the roof’s inlaid geometric design.   I remember turning around to look back at the house for some reason, seeing the roof, and exclaiming in wonder that I must take a photo of it.

It was only later, looking at the photograph anew with artist’s eyes, that I realized how the strong lines of the fence and shadows pulled me in and almost begged me to paint it.  One reason I love working from old photos is that you get to revisit those memories from your past all over again.

When sketching, I simplified the background by eliminating the outbuildings to focus on the fence shadows, leading the way up to the house.  I also eliminated some of the background trees because, truthfully, I could not see a lot of detail back there.  This was meant to be a sketch only, but perhaps I might make it into a formal painting at a later date.

If you’d like more information about the Firestone Farm and the Henry Ford Museum, please visit my personal blog.  You can get there from the link on the side bar.

8 comments:

K said...

e-mail notification.

Gabrielle said...

This has so much depth to it - and not because of the strong composition, but all the textures in the fields, the trees, the road. And I am in awe of the fence to the left where you saved the white to really imply strong sunlight. Makes the shadows on the road that much more true. You've really improved on the photograph. This is a painting to treasure.

Rachel said...

i like it . from julias sister rachel

Teri said...

It is an interesting building and the fence shadows really draw my eye into the scene. Good idea to leave the outbuilding out of the sketch. The addition of the people also adds to the depth.

Kathy said...

Wow, Krista, definitely an early favorite of mine! The photo is amazing--looks like a pro took it---but your sketch does improve on it. I can't wait to see the formal painting, because of course you must do it ; ).

Laure Ferlita said...

EXCELLENT job, Krista! Love the distance and the atmosphere and hope you do turn it into a formal piece.

Next!!

Claire M said...

This is absolutely incredible! I love it. You have captured so much depth to it -- it really pulls me in and makes me want to explore it more. I am particularly drawn to the fence and the shadows on the path - stunning!

Kelly said...

Krista.....it's gorgeous. I love farmhouses, fields, and fences and you've capture it all. The shadows are just so cool. They lead the way to the house. I like the trees in the background...so soft and pretty!