No 27

It's still rather good though. Are you leaving the drive as it is? It seems a bit empty in that corner. As for artistic licence a painting sometimes needs more than is there in real life because one has to look at it for far longer.

As it's a commission, you have to paint it as it is. I'd be very pleased with this Michael and I wouldn't try to alter things for fear of spoiling it. I wouldn't have noticed the side wall if you hadn't pointed it out. They'll be delighted I'm sure!

Skilfully painted Michael, I admire your expertise with watercolour. I do agree with Dawn though that the RH corner seems a bit empty. I think if it were cropped to the end of the first background building it would be more balanced. I have never had a commission and don't think I could handle the pressure, I'd rather just please myself!

Thanks all for your kind words. Dawn - no I shall add a bit of texturing to the drive and also (something which is often overlooked) the signature will go here to add to the overall balance. Currently this painting is in the 'live with it for a while' stage - I can often see something when I return to a painting with a fresh mind which wasn't so evident when I completed it.

Hi Michael, I have never had a commission either but can envisage your difficulties with painting an 'ordinary' house such as this compared to a characterful one of a characterful cottage or similar, you are making a lovely job of it, i am with you on the point of leaving something for a few days and seeing it through fresh eyes few days later

I'm sure your customer will be pleased with this Michael, I like the pale trees which add a sense of depth to the scene.

NOT easy - if only the house were higher than the one next to it, instead of the other way round - but that would be licence too far, unfortunately. Good luck with it, but it is looking good so far.

I rather like this painting. I actually thought it was one of Thea Cable's - I think it's the colour scheme !

Hi Michael, what a brave lad you are to take on a commission of this type of subject. My view is don't tooch it any more as the simplicity of the composition enhances the the overall effect. Love the pallet, never tried SAA paints so cannot comment on that point. If there was a comment to make it would be on the drive area along the right hand side. May be bring the kerb edge in to give you a lead in to the rear of the picture. Nice one Michael, don't spoil it.

Thanks all for giving such positive feedback - just received another commission so off today to take photos, make sketches etc - hope the rain keeps off.

Lovely work Michael, I am sure they will love it.

Took me ages to find this one Michael, it's just lovely, always harder to do commissions and you are never satisfied with them.

A beautiful painting again Michael! The owners of the house will be ever so pleased. I like commissions because it's always a challenge! Good luck with yours!

Very fresh looking and very well painted, Michael. If you aren't happy with the end wall, you could throw a bit of spatter at it (which is what I would do!). However, I do think that your client will be delighted with how nice the house looks, so I wouldn't worry too much.

A lovely piece, Michael. Great washes, as usual, and very atmospheric. I'll bet the client is pleased!