How this still life evolved
I started out with this rather pathetic setup. The rose was dying, and I’m working against time. I loved the light on the vase, and the colors in the rose, but not the pine table top. This is when I decided to improvise.
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![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/winter-rose-set-up.jpg)
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I laid in the grey background first, then proceeded with the rose, and suggested the vase.
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/winter-rose_layout.jpg)
The more I defined the rose, the more I liked the suggestion of the vase. I sort of liked the realism against the more free form.Â
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/winter-rose_realism-vs-suggestion.jpg)
I then filled in the vase imagining what it would be like if the pine side table were dark. I did not like the vase filled in. To me, it lost the spontaneity
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/winter-rose_too-heavy.jpg)
So I went back to suggesting the vase with simple line where the light hits the curves and edges. I put in reflections of the rose to bring more color to the vase, and to draw the eye down. I want you to know that I spent, probably, the most time on that little line in the upper lefthand corner of the base of the vase. It’s truly amazing how a small dot can change the weight or balance of a painting.
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Winter-rose-framed.jpg)
Now I’m turning to the FABLES again. I’d love to complete them by the end of March.
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Owl-Mole-copy.jpg)
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Owl-Mole_image-3.jpg)
![](https://www.sarahbuelldowling.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Owl-Mole-image-5.jpg)
Now I’m Working on the Fable,
Owl’s Client
I’m going back and forth between illustrating and fine art. I really love both!
 “What seems to be the problem, Mr. Mole?” said Owl.
You’ll have to read the Fable to find out what happens…