I read an article recently in the Daniel Smith Catalog about value studies. I have learned to do them before beginning a painting, using them as a reference as I progress. It makes the painting process flow better, like following a map.  However, this article suggested taking a Black&White photo toward the end of the painting to re-evaluate the values. This is kind of similar to putting it upside down across the room and squinting, but was more clear to me  when I looked at it in B&W. I can see better now where I need to darken the shadows on her front to make her look more round.
This is one of those cases where I've been taught to do something, but didn't really GET IT until I saw it this way. This was a good tip that I wanted to pass on.
Have a great week! :)

Wow! By the time I have stopped for dinner, (The DOG reminded me), I had a pretty good start on JUMP! I am "channeling" her enthusiasm as I'm working, and had lost track of the time.
It is rare that I have an entire day to actually spend in my cubby, so I was determined to make the most of it. I cleaned while paint was drying, organized, and rearranged my work space so I could be comfortable sitting (or standing) longer.  Jeanne Brenneman, a very talented artist, and generous teacher, once told me: "There's more work in the studio than just painting" -- I totally agree! It is hard to maintain concentration when you are sitting in clutter. I think Jeanne would be proud!
I've had a FABULOUS day, and hope to finish this painting in time for the WVWS Juried Aqueous Exhibit in May. It seems to be painting itself, which I guess I can put down to all the planning and drawing I did before-hand. (Another lesson it took me a while to learn!) Thanks, Linda Turner!.

In the midst of being excited for starting this new painting, I got news that "The Student" was selected to the Baltimore Watercolor Society 2013 Mid-Atlantic Regional Exhibition! I am glad to see that painting succeed, because it is one of my favorite ones (subject AND execution!)
But now I am heading back to the cubby to keep my projects moving along. This photo of Emma, was taken on her Birthday, and I loved her expression of sheer joy while she was playing. I did a value study in ink (on a scrap of paper at work), which was actually a larger composition. After studying it for a while, I decided to crop it to just Em, focusing on her expression and using her shadow to add an interesting element. The background with be soft shapes.
Now, back to my cubby! Happy Painting!  :)
 

This portrait  is taken from a photo during our Daughter's wedding last August. I put
a small reflection of Maria in the lens of his glasses to acknowledge his deep feelings on that day.
I struggled with the background, and may still tone down all that activity back there with a softer wash.