Following on from the comments in the last post, I decided to do some more to the drawing. Firstly, I darkened the background to push it back as suggested by Sue. To make sure I kept the boy behind the glass I did as Pat suggested and darkened the edges of the raindrops. I also darkened the lower part of the boys shirt to make it look less even and I've done a little work with the hair.
The changes have significantly increased the contrast of the drawing and given the whole thing much more depth. I don't know if it is something I see because I want to, but I also feel the drawing now has more atmosphere and mood.
Thanks to everyone who commented previously but especially Sue and Pat.
This is a fantastic sketch John, I can imagine how many hours you put into it, just love the expression on that little face. The advice you got was precious, so much improved the whole atmosphere.
ReplyDeleteThank you Jane. Yes, that advice made all the difference. It's one reason why I never shy away from posting one of my mediocre efforts ... someone out there may be able to help me improve it.
DeleteIt looks fab John! So much depth and atmosphere now.
ReplyDeleteYou really have made it sing! xx
Thank you Pat for the great advice regarding the raindrops. I'm much happier with the whole thing. ;-)
DeleteI think you improved it, John! It is a wonderful drawing, I love the story it tells!
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Judy.
DeleteI thought it looked awesome to begin with but you really have improved it with the changes you made. Amazing piece, John ... Hope to see lots more from you now you have a little more art time ;)
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Michael. I'm really looking forward to spending more time on my art ... I just need to get caught up with all the things I haven't been doing while at work. lol.
DeleteIt really has made a huge difference! It was good before and now it's great! Maybe you could attempt a colour version now :0)
ReplyDeleteA colour version? Now there's a thought. Thank you very much Sandra.
DeleteThis is perfect now John!
ReplyDeletePat's suggestion with the rain drops has definitely helped push him further behind the window, although I did like the feeling he was just a fraction behind the glass too.
Thank you very much for suggesting I darken the background Sue ... I'm much happier with this now. Well, as happy as I ever am. LOL.
DeleteThose raindrops on the glass look fantabulous!
ReplyDeleteThank you Nora, glad you like it.
DeleteWow, what a fabulous piece John. I love the mystery and the expression of the boy. And those raindrops are perfectly rendered! Sue and Pat gave you great advice. And I've just been looking through your blog and I've missed so much! Love the cake for your last day of work John, and I'm so happy you have more time to make art now! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Crystal, I appreciate that very much. Yes, Sue and Pat made a big difference and that cake had to be seen to be believed. It tasted good too. I have a long list of things to catch up with now I'm retired but I'm looking forward to getting to the art ... eventually. LOL.
DeleteYour values are much improved in this version. It's wonderful to have so many blogging friends who are willing to share their knowledge.
ReplyDeleteJean
You are so right Jean. I've never held back from posting work I'm not so pleased with for this very reason. There's always somebody able to help. Thank you very much.
DeleteThis is really striking! The monochromatic tone of graphite/charcoal is so expressive, and perfect for this composition! I like the mood that it creates. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteKatherine, how nice of you to drop in. Thank you very much for your lovely comment. ;-)
DeleteAs a water colorist, but certainly no expert so take this with a grain of salt, I would have to glaze this with a thin wash of Cobalt Blue Violet from Daniel Smith. Just the slightest tint to further impart the rain and take the edge off the drops. Of course, then it would become mixed media, but I feel the subject determines what it needs! I do love and honor your work as it stands - excellent drawing skills.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Trudy. That's an interesting suggestion.
DeleteYour changes in this painting are wonderful. Really I see the boy through and behind the glasses. Beautiful expression.
ReplyDeleteLovely greet Marja
Thank you very much Marja.
ReplyDeleteNice painted John. On the first drawing, there was indeed very pale with little depth. With the changes in the painting it's has become really beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThank you Renske. Yes, I was hesitant over making changes to the drawing for fear of spoiling it, but I'm really glad I did.
DeleteJohn, I don't know why, but this is my favorite of your drawings! This drawing makes me think of my childhood. I love it!
ReplyDeletePat V.