First floral painting! by Fiona Phipps

I know what you mean Fiona, I find flowers quite impossible (hence none on POL!). However, I think this is a good effort, especially as a first attempt.

Its light and airy and I dont think you've over worked it. It definitely deserves another attempt. I think you could go a shade darker in one or two of the leaves and stems

In fact its a great first attempt - keep going Fiona and don't give up.

A really good first attempt Fiona, Like Stephen I find flowers quite difficult and gave up painting them up a long time ago, but you should keep going, this piece shows you have what it takes to do convincing flower studies so look forward to seeing your next one, well done.

You're too self-critical - and you shouldn't be, because a) there are always plenty of people to criticize you without any help from you, and b) this painting is absolutely fine. The one thing I'd suggest is a bit of dark under the stem wandering out of the right side of the bunch, and maybe picking out just a few touches in the couple of leaves lying on the table. Just a touch in either case because you don't want to overdo it. I haven't painted flowers, other than in a landscape, for around 30 years, by the way! So don't feel obliged to take any notice.

I'm glad I'm not the only one that has found this subject challenging to replicate, or even get an impression of! I will do as you suggest Robert/Paul and add a few touches of darker tones here and there. Thank you all for you advice and encourageing comments.

Nice spring feeling! Lovely painting Fiona, the flowers look great

Lovely painting Fiona - I agree with the darker tones mentioned - that would help. I am impressed especially with a background as well, well done

Many thanks Petra and Glennis, I might be tempted to have another go at painting flowers, but try and make them a bit brighter.

This is a wonderful first flower painting. I am admiring you glass vase and the light you have got into the whole painting. I love the fact the the flowers aren't over defined and I think it is just perfect as it is.

Actually - Thea (who DOES know about painting flowers) is probably right; rather than change this one, why not do another instead?

Very bold work. I love this, Fiona. I always hesitate painting flowers.'

I would be really pleased if this were my first attempt, Fiona! You've managed to keep the colors clear and bright (really important for floral watercolors, and the devil to achieve!) and you've captured the delicacy of the petals and the natural flow of the lines beautifully. Well done!

I totally agree with all the others, but especially with Seok. If this would be my first flower painting, I would be very happy about it. But it is always difficult to judge ones own work. You see that other members can have a completely different view about it! Well done :) Mia.

A beautiful first attempt, Fiona. The background is soft and doesn't overwhelm the flowers and the colours of the flowers are lovely. I've tried a couple of roses - week, wishy things they were (in my painting that is,) nothing like as good as these. You must certainly do some more.

Beautiful, loose and colourful. Well done Fiona!

It's all been said in the comments above, Fiona. I really love this painting. Your versatility is amazing. I am tempted to say more flowers, please, but I don't want to lose seeing your other styles/subjects. So, more of everything, please!

Thea, Robert, Midori, Seok, Mia, Jane, Carole, Lionel....many thanks to you all for your continued support and encouragement. I really didn't expect such positive feedback as I didn't think it was very good at all. There are one or two flower painting experts among you and so it certainly has encouraged me to have another go at a flower painting.

I don't do flowers either, Fiona but for a first attempt this is really good. They look natural and fresh with gentle colours. Well done!

Can't believe this is your first flower painting Fiona, I love the looseness of it and the way you have captured the light. I am green with envy LOL

Thank you very much Satu, Val.....I'd love to be able to paint flowers with all their beautiful detail but I just don't have the talent or the patience.

I like the colours Fiona. Have you looked at any of Shirley Trevena's work? She does lots of painting of flowers and has written books on painting in a loose way. Perhaps look out for her books or her DVD if you want to keep going with this subject.

Hi Mary thanks very much for the information and comment. I have heard of Shirley Trevena and seen some of her work. I don't know if I'm cut out to be a flower painter but may have another go some time.

This is so lovely Fiona. The colours are beautiful.

Many thanks Beverley.

this is the first? amazing!!

Yes, the first Ann and you can probably see from my gallery that it still is the only one.

Fiona - firstly, thankyou so much for your lovely comment on my painting. Secondly, I am ordering you to do some more floral paintings, as this is so so lovely. Please please please !

Beverley, it's funny you should mention me doing another floral painting because I did do one the other day.......the first since this one actually. I wasn't going to post it but as you asked so nicely, I might. Watch this space!!

Thankyou ! and it's gorgeous !

I had a first go ever at flowers the other day. Yours is better.

Bet it isn't! I think I've only done one more since this one and that was a bit sketchy.

Michael you are very kind, thank you.