August Challenge 2011 Kevin Donaldson

August Challenge 2011 

Painting No 2.

Shell Painting by Kevin Donaldson

I just had to add this painting by Kevin Donaldson. I have recieved so many shells for the August Challenge that looked similar and amongst them came this incredible composition with other shells on the beach, shadows and so much more than what I had asked for. There is a feeling of light here also.

I think whenever we see a subject or are asked to paint something our brain immediately goes into gear as to thinking how to create what we can actually really see into a painting. But there comes a point in our artistic journey when that isn't enough and we  look into ways of creating what we don't see as well which in turn adds to the individuality of the finished result.

This doesn't by any means make paintings of the shell alone any less important but it does show how far we can go using our imagination.

Because of how I work I would love to see a few soft edges in this piece or maybe sections left to the imagination but wow what a completely different result and one I hadn't expected to see when I first set the challenge.  When we walk around exhibitions certain paintings stand out and we don't know why. Maybe we love the subjects, or possibly we admire the skill and techniques used by the artists. But when we see something completely new and different we often take a double take. I did with Kevins' painting!

As artists we not only need to create but we also need to think about grabbing the viewers attention which is well done  in this challenge by this unique composition!

Thank you very much Kevin for joining in with the challenge!

**************************

August Watercolour Challenge 2011

Photograph of a Shell against a copper patio background.

I have waited very patiently to share my favourite paintings forwarded to me for my August Watercolour 2011 Challenge.

When I first set the challenge I thought a shell would be perfect as a reminder of Summer, of  walks on the beach, of childhood memories possibly seeking for shells when on holiday in distant locations or at home and nearby.

This particular shell was an unusual shape, the colouring appealed to me and I placed it on a warm background to enhance the stripes on the body of the shell itself. I set the challenge giving no  tips, clues or suggestions really of what I would be looking for. I actually didn't expect many replies or submissions of paintings which is where I completely misinterpreted the  number of readers and watercolours lovers who follow my blog.

I want to wish a huge thank you to everyone who has sent me a painting and if you haven't had a reply by email it is because I didn't want to spoil the sharing of my favourites which will be my next blog posts. I hope by explaining why I like the paintings will be of  value and that you will consider joining in my next challenge for September!

I have loved looking at the fantastic watercolours that have come my way from this and most of all I love getting to know the artists who are in touch with me. I feel a connection with you  from our joint passion for this magical medium.

I will be adding the challenge paintings here next. It is quite exciting isn't it!

********************************