Monday, August 06, 2012

Sunflowers Outdoors

15 1/2" x 11 1/2"

It was the flowers of Emil Nolde that got me started, using Tsukineko inks and painting directly on a piece of muslin, and then thread-painted over that.  However, it all seemed too diffuse and unsatisfying, so I went on from there with beads, and did heavier beading than I have ever done before.  The beads in the centers of the flowers were simply glued in en mass which gives a more nubbly texture.  As a shortcut, I used Shrinky-Dinks for the leaves, which came out nice and bright.  As a final touch, I painted with a clear glitter paint in strokes away from the flowers.

I find that I like the flowers but not the rest of the "canvas" here.  Suggestions and critiques are welcome (including a better title!).


3 comments:

Unknown said...

You created a lot of interest in this piece with the texture of the beading. I think that the more muted background is a good choice so that your flowers become the focal point. Have you considered quilting the blue section to make the flowers stand out even more?

Cynthia Ann Morgan said...

Hi Tobi, another thought to make the flowers more distinct is to outline them individually with black or brown thread. Lovely variety of textures...great job!
Cynthia

fastfriday said...

I would alo like to see a little more definition around the flowers. Your texture i wonderful and the entire piece is whimsical and fun.

Pat Havey