draw-in of Pink Peonies in the Salt Glazed Jug

20"x16" oil on canvas

Here you'll get to see another step-by-step, from idea, to set up to beginnings, all the way through to the end. I like to work on an oil primed canvas. Lately I've worked a couple up on acrylic gesso primed canvas and it just doesn't have the feel that I like. There's just that certain way that paint comes off your brush one way vs. the other. I suppose they were talking about painting when the phrase "Different strokes for different folks" came about!
Here I've toned the canvas in a warm earthy color. I like to draw in my image roughly with ultramarine blue paint. I find it easy to cover if I keep it fairly thin & ink-like (but not so juicy that it's running all over the place). I also like drawing in with paint rather than pencil or charcoal - I can move it much easier with the wipe of a rag if need be, until I'm happy with the drawing. I try not to get too detailed with the draw-in at this point. I just want to indicate where the major players are going to stand!