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Inspiration from Artists Week 19 Bonus Artist :Hero Johnson.

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Hang on Studio Wall
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Paul (Dixie) Dean

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I use reference photos quite often as the ships , boats , cars etc are no longer available to see. As I’m not able to get up into the woodlands etc anymore I use some of my own photos or occasionally use those available on the internet. I don’t paint the photo as it is I use a tree , a building etc from them and make a lot of changes  the finished painting look nothing like the photos. The only true likeness to a photo I do is if it is of a specific scene or  object , you can’t do a painting of Windsor castle by using Pembroke castle as the model. There are many people who for many reason cannot get out and about , it’s better that they paint from photos rather than not at all.  Like all things in art it not cheating nor is it wrong it’s very much down to personal choice , circumstance and can be a valuable resource . I admire the skill and patience of artists who can paint , sketch or use any medium to create a painting that looks so realistic there is a bit of doubt as to it being a photograph , but I would not choose one for my wall. I wish I had the the skill to be able to choose to paint or draw so well. 

Sylvia Evans

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I certainly like most of these portraits they have a life of their own.    I use photographs belonging to other people simply for reference  but not for copying .  .  Certainly not for flowers I pick them or use a pic of my own.   I can't see how portraits can be done these days without reference photographs.  Life classes and portraits groups are great , I sneak quick sketches of complete strangers when I am out and about. Adebanji Alade does the same on a much greater scale than I ever will.   It must be wonderful to have a sitter on tap.   BUT I think the use of your own photographs is essential. Unless you have permission to use them.  Copyright raises its head again. Incidentally several of us have used photographs recently on our in shop challenges.  

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by Sylvia Evans

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