(TSoT = The Story of Trees)
When I decided to name these trees (and trunks), I did not really pay much attention to each tree in particular, because I was looking for names which meant “strength and protection”, but somehow it appears as if the names do indeed belong to the correct trees. The pattern which resulted from the “Fortress” image does indeed do justice to its name, I feel. It reminds me of dungeons where one can hide.
Compared to “Beacon” (the one in the previous blog) this trunk is accentuated and the background is ignored to a degree. The size of the tree dominates the picture plane and I did not have much room to care about the background. The colour palette is much calmer too. I think the interesting shapes of the tree trunk forced me to concentrate, so that I could portray the twists and curls of the branches and roots credibly. I was also much closer to “Fortress” physically and I could observe the detail better.
There are almost no random dots seen in the background, because the dominating “Fortress” in the foreground is the subject. I took me about an hour to create this small work. I had started to define the tree more carefully and the dots are actually flowing with the shape of the tree and the outlines. I don’t know if I am completely off the beaten track here, but I feel like saying that I have created almost a pointillist-type of work here (and I am referring to the trunk of the tree). If you want to refresh your knowledge with regards to the Pointillist movement, click on the link provided. A lovely lady Hajra Meeks will explain more. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFu-gaRidWI
Just a little tip here: when one is trying to build up artistic momentum, working on a smaller scale could be the solution. One can easily do one or even four of these A5-size paintings a day, I think. I chose to do only one a day, because I felt a bit rusty (and I was working on location). After seven days, I had seven small paintings and then I felt a bit more organized in my head; I had indeed become more adventurous too. I know we are all different and this may not apply to everyone, but if one feels stuck and scared of making art, start by making manageable works.
I hope to see you at the last tree in this series. Keep on making those small or big works – if art is your thing and remember there is art in your heart.
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