So very stunning, Jimmie. I love the value changes, the way you formed every curve, right down to the planes of the nostrils!! And the color is so rich. I know nothing about pastels, it is great mystery to me. But I love this painting, Jimmie.

Enter some more contests - she's a winner for sure!!!

Jimmie,

I already said I thought this was stunning, but wanted to comment on the loose vs. tight thing.

I dont know about you, but who or what I am painting affects that. And the mood Im in, the phase of the moon, whether Im hungry or full...etc. Go with the flow, maybe this one was supposed to be tighter. I think that your right, if you concentrate on working one way - it never comes out exactly as planned. As much planning as we put into our work - a lot of it is still just natural instinct and talent. Fighting our natural talents is a waste of time. Be free, I say! Whatever way you work - it's always outstanding.

Jimmie,

Sorry I missed the WIP, must slap myself.... This is just stunning!

Actually I think the tighter style works really well in this particular piece. Your previous works are free and relaxing but this one is different, well different in a good way. You captured the atmosphere and the intensity of her gaze, it shows a lot of attitude!

IMHO, I don't think "loose" is better than "tight" or "tight" is better than "loose" , they convey different feelings and tell different stories. I love seeing and experimenting with both.

It's always a pleasure to see your work! I better go and get started on my pastel now.

Thanks for all the new replies.

I agree that one style is not better than the other, as long as it works. I personally would like to continue to work in a looser style. The majority of the artsits that I admire work in a looser manner, such as Degas, Egon Schiele, Picasso's blue and rose period, and my favorite Gustav Klimt. Believe it or not this is one of my favorite paintings at the Met. It's by Vuillard. It's something I would love to apply to my work.

I was a huge fan of Ingres's paintings along with other realists when I was in college. I was close-minded about it, which was silly of me. I airbrushed for many years trying to get as realistic as possible. I realized it was backfiring when people thought I was manipulating photos. I was contacted by two computer imaging magazines about interviews regarding the programs and techniques I used for my work. I told them it was done by hand, and did'nt hear from them again.

After taking about 5-6 years off from art completely (biggest mistake of my life) I was drawn to the impressionists and looser work. Although I never cared for landscapes, I also became a fan of Turner. I then tried working in the looser manner with the drawings and wish to apply it to the pastels. I have no interest in working a photorealistic manner (not sure if I could anymore anyway, may have taken too much time away) but the looser I can get, while keeping true to myself, is something I would like to strive for.

It's simply my opinion, in no way am I trying to imply that my thoughts are correct and am using this to prove myself. I also enjoy looking at more realistic work, but it's no longer a style I'd like to work in. I may turn back to it as I get older, ya never know. Life's funny that way.

Thanks for listening to my rantings.

Jimmie,

Your rantings are always interesting. Combined with your skill and commitment to excellence, they are even more valuable. Keep them coming.

Janet

I've been lurking, watching the WIP and this thread. This and the work on your website are great... I enjoy the attitude that they all have. They all look like they could be an old friend.