Exploring light

Some pages from my art journal.

How has working with LIGHT been and what sorts of creative practices has it inspired?

I was most keen to experiment with the chiaroscuro technique, but this month has unfolded in a rather unexpected manner.

I had a nasty fall down some stairs, which resulted in a ligament injury in both my ankles, so most of my free time has been spent in physical therapy and in a bit of discomfort.

I also had to travel for a family gathering. My sister and 3-year old niece are here from the US, and I’m finally getting to paint with her in person rather than via video call!

So while I haven’t been able to explore the techniques I wanted to, I have contemplated LIGHT. I’ve gathered together some quotes and pages from my art journals where I worked with this theme.

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Building up the layers: from dark to light

Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that. - Martin Luther King Jr.

The painting at the top of this post was an exploration in building up the layers, from dark to light. You can watch the process here - start at the 8:22 mark for the painting demo.

Using white space

May it be a light to you in dark places, when all other lights go out. - J.R.R. Tolkien

Here’s another example of going from dark to light, as well as a somewhat effective/alternative take on using white space.

Minimal abstract

Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light. - Brene Brown

Exploring minimal abstracts is something I enjoy doing from time to time. When I have some time, though, I want to try my hand at exploring some of the styles from this Pinterest board.

Using feathers — and petals

Just because you are soft doesn't mean you are not a force. Honey and wildfire are both the colour gold. - Victoria Erickson

This was the first time I used actual feathers and petals on a painting, and I think it looks gorgeous! There’s a lightness and etherealness to this that I find particularly appealing.

Before we end, check out these collage notecards that Kathryn Vercillo was inspired to make!

I’d love to feature your take on the monthly prompts too! You can share it with me via Notes on Substack or by replying to this e-mail.

Which one of these paintings do you like best?

Love this post? Share it with your friends and invite them into our virtual studio. There’s space for all of us here! If you’re on the Substack app, consider restacking this post to Notes.