Figure, Oil Sketch

This is a piece done recently, not framed yet. Beautiful model I just love to paint. She just makes it so easy, the work is a pleasure. Such fun! Looking forward to this weeks session, hope I can make it! I think we're supposed to have another great female model.

When doing these oil sketches, more than simply getting a likeness, I strive to create a good painting. Sometimes, in a group setting, sharing a model with other artists may mean that I don't have the exact view that I'd like to have. This means finding the best composition from the viewpoint I have for that session. But I don't necessarily have to paint the entire figure. I'm just looking for the best pattern of lights and darks, angles, etc. to lead the eye through the painting. Sometimes this is easier said than done but using a view finder (which is my favorite crutch) will certainly help.