Wood Ducks, Not in a Row

 

Wood Ducks, 2023, Oil on Panel, 12"x24"

I need a bit of distance from this painting to get a better critical eye.  Currently, I feel it is somewhat dull, lacking in light.  I do know I will wash over the reflections once they are dry to make them less prominent.  I'm also uncertain about the background water and sky.  Should they blend one into the other?, should there be more activity in the water?.  The strongest water is between the 3 ducks on the left.  I may replicate that on the right.  Yes, I definitely will.  But for now, a reprieve and something new on the easel.  

Wood Ducks, Decisions with Modifications.

 

Wood Ducks, Oil on Panel, 12"x23"

I decided the composition would be more dynamic with some diagonal movement.  If the central duck (the boss) was just a bit larger with his head higher it could become the golden ratio. 

Get Your Ducks in a Row

Decisions, Decisions

I generally like my birds all in a row.  It might have to do with the format of the panel.  But, even in square panels I seem to move toward a horizontal format.  I also like the odd number, 5 or 3...not 2, 4, or 6.  There also is generally a 'leader'.  In this case it is not in the least subtle who that will be.  The question is do I want the other 4 to be conversing with the leader.  Or, do I want them just happy little ducks independently swimming along.  I chose the Wood Duck because the feathers are the most beautiful colors.  There is some iridescence which is difficult.  

All of February with an Anticipation of Spring

 

This piece of rhododendrons was done for the juried spring show at Copley Society of Art.  The theme is Refresh.  I'm really not thrilled or even good with thematic calls.  I'm far too literal and also observational in my approach.  Each slide varies in color that was affected by the time of day in the studio when the shot was taken.  The intense magenta is the true representation.  The verdict is yet to be announced.  

The College Seminar, 2023

 

College Seminar, 2023, Oil on Panel, 12"x24"

The Northern Cardinal has several nicknames for groups of them.  College is one such nomenclature.  I feel like the Cardinal sitting on the bowl is Professor.  It could even be the College Bowl.  Today in my yard I heard that familiar Cardinal song that indicates spring and mating.  Then, I witnessed a male gather a seed from the feeder, hop down to the deck railing and feed a female.  Touching.  

The College Seminar, In Progress

 

I've added a branch to the winterberry in order to account for the weight of the Cardinal.  Now I'm wondering if it would still topple and need something to weigh down the end of the branch.  A male Cardinal only weighs 1.5 to 1.7 ounces.  So.....  There are now feet in play, shadows to be refined and clean up to happen.  

The College Seminar, In Progress

The College Seminar, Oil on Panel, 12" x 24"

I've realized if the male was perched on the winterberry his weight would pull the branch down to the table.  Therefore, adjustments are to be made.  Stay tuned.  In other news, Three Part Harmony has been selected by the Copley Society for the Members juried Winter Harmony show.  (Yes, I am very literal). 

Three Part Harmony, Oil on Panel, 12"x24"