My Teddy

[Chris Saper]

Dear Carol,

I know that your next post will include a SUPERB photo reference! Notwithstanding the source photo commments I had just a few thoughts expanding on Garth's comments a little.

Yes, there will always be some reflected color - in both directions. The strength of the reflected color depends on many factors, - local color/ saturation; type of light; direction and strength of light, and texture of each surface. Sharing color is a very important tool in integrating the subject with the background.

Your painting has a Matisse-like feel to it, and the flatness is underscored by the figure's silhouette edges, which have uniformity. I think the areas where the color saturation is as strong along the shadow edges as on the top parts of the form also contributes to this feel. I see your sharpest edge as being the boy's right elbow against the chair, where the seam in the Teddy Bear's nose is quite strongly contrasted as well. Fortunately edges are easy to adjust (usually) when needed.

Compositionally, your decision to include the hand on our right to "stop" the eye was a sound one. I also think you have made a strong and thoughtful decision about a classic complementary color harmony!

See you soon,