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Scumbling.
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Message
Posted
I'm working on a couple of oil painting at the moment, trying to get the practice in. This one, I started, to see or learn about glaze over colour rather than mono. It's only half finished, the glass needs tons of work yet as does the flower. The oranges need a little more work. All of a sudden today, I didn't plan it, I thought, I will try scumbling in the background. I think I was definitely heavy handed. I haven't read much about it but I can see the type of effect it could give. I might paint the background and try again. What I was wondering, would this technique give more texture to the oranges or would I be wasting my time trying. I like the texture it has given to the table so I'll paint over that and try it again with a lighter touch. One last thing, I know it takes a lot of practice but does it kind of look like I'm on the right track with it or is it all wrong. Thanks.
Posted
Yes, it could work on the oranges - could work quite well. While scumbling is usually the application of a dry, light colour over a darker, the reverse can be just as effective. Keep experimenting, though I think Alan would say 'don't get too caught up in advanced techniques before you're ready'. With which I'd normally agree completely, but I think these experiments are going well and will do you good.
Posted
Yes, I would normally advise that Robert, but Denise likes to experiment, as well as being ultra keen, so there’s no stopping her anyway! - and she’s making a good job of some of these techniques.
Okay then... I wouldn’t scumble large flat areas such as that background, areas of cloud formations work well scumbled in backgrounds, so leave that alone.
Absolutely you could pick out areas on the oranges, not the whole fruit though, keep it limited, then follow with more glazing.
Both glazing and scumbling work better when you pick out certain areas for the eye to hone in on, added texture and vibrancy as well, rather than scattered everywhere.
Posted
Thanks very much Robert and Alan, you have given me lots of information I need to enable me to move forward and get on with practicing these great techniques . I will be able to get cracking on this and things are much clearer now. Very much appreciated. I can't wait for tomorrow to pick it up and try again.