I had the good fortune to study with Charles Reid all last week. I've taken a lot of workshops through the years and have to say, this was the best one I've taken. I actually produced some work that is worth keeping and learned much that I will be incorporating into other work that I do. Not the style, but simple things like brush work and color. Interesting to me was that no matter if you were a beginner or very advanced, you could learn from this man and he really wanted you to get it. The first three days we worked on still life. My first one was not so hot but there was a part of it that turned out very nicely... I've blown that part up.
Day two was better, there are parts of it that I don't like but overall it's not too bad. I especially like the wine bottle and glass.
I still have much work to do on brush stroke and connections but overall am happy with where I am.
Days four and five were spent on people. I have my own way of drawing people and don't have a problem getting a likeness; however, when it comes to painting that drawing... that's a whole different ball game and I'm rarely happy with the results. His method of drawing made painting much easier because his drawing is looser... much like my sketches but more controlled. My first attempt left much to be desired though he was kind and found some things he liked about it. I can't find it on my computer right now so I must have really hated it. Anyway by day two I was doing better, slow but better. She isn't complete but this is our model, Tracy... in real life and in my work in process.... I have her mouth too small but this is what I got done in two hours.
I wish I could have brought him home with me to look over my shoulder while I work. I'd love to have his wife along too as she is a delightful lady. If you're a watercolor artist and haven't already taken a workshop from this man.... do if you have a chance.
8 comments:
Sounds like a wonderful experience, Helen - very nice work! I really like that second still life -
It would be a dream come true to go to one... the portrait has beautiful skin tones and lovely lost and found edges (C.Reid trademark!). Thanks for sharing your experience Helen - it confirms what comes through in his books - a teacher who cares.
Oh...I love the colors of the still life-everything is so vibrant. Wouldn't it be nice if workshops could take the place of work!
It sounds like you had a great time in his class and learned a lot. I would like to take a class with him. I enjoyed seeing your work from his class...great color! Come visit my blog and see some of my paintings of France. I've uploaded maybe a third of them so far.
Glad to hear you had a wonderful week, and enjoyed yourself. I love your work, especially the second one, I have a perfect spot in my home for it!!!hint hint:) I really like your work with the brush,lovely fresh colors, very appealing.:)
Thank you all. If you have an opportunity to take a workshop from him I do recommend it.
I've got to put a workshop on my list -- sounds like a great one.
nice work!
Just love C. Reid. Have 2 of his books and have understood many techniques that remaind mysterious to me until I read them. Am a watercolor artist myself.
Best regards,
Dandu
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