Figure Painting Sessions

Figure painting session at Candace Castle's studio, St. Joseph, MO.
"Each piece involves an adventure to grow and mature my knowledge and skills as an artist.  It's not the practice of technique, but the practice of seeing, that enhances my abilities."

---Brent Seevers (from artist statement)

Back into figurative work and study.  Probably one of the most difficult practices for an artist is figurative study/work from life.  Unlike the options of plein air or still-life where you can pack up and head out or arrange items in your studio, figurative work involves painting other people---which means finding models and scheduling sessions.  Certainly not something you can do often at the last minute.  Often times, models are paid---which helps out when there are a number of artists participating.

The human form is one of the most enduring themes in the visual arts as well as the most challenging subject.  This classical exercise has been practiced for centuries and is still a foundation taught and practiced in art schools today.

I've always been fond of figurative work, especially with the use of live models.  A practice I have not been doing since I was an art major in college ('96 and '97).  It felt good getting back into it.  With much needed inspiration from Adam Clague's figure painting workshop recently held at the Albrecht-Kemper, now a number of us in St. Joe are getting together once a week at Candace Castle's studio house for 3 hour sessions.  Models are found and model fees are paid.  The practice is great for those who would like to hone their skills in figurative drawing/painting or portraiture.  Limited easel space is 6.

These two paintings below are my most recent.  The Zorn palette (4 colors) was used in both, except for the blue.  I'm finding this limited palette very interesting to play around with in this type of work, especially when introducing one or two new colors.  Eager in doing more.

Emma, 8x10 oil on canvas
Chad, 8x10 oil on canvas

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