Experimentation with oil paints:

One of my goals for my final year is to improve upon the more fundamental and traditional aspects of fine art, mainly painting and drawing. I have always tended to lean more towards abstract and modern art and I haven't put as much time and thought into the more fundamental parts of art. This is second attempt at ever using oil paints. I worked from a photograph that I had taken at the Attenborough Nature Reserve and I did this without following any tutorials or instructions. I wanted to see how well I would do without any help and using my own instincts to guide me. I believe that I have done a decent job considering I have very minimal experience with oil painting. My favourite things about this piece is the depth and texture that I have managed to get on the trees and bushes, and the reflection in the water. I think that they have real character to them and I love the way the clouds reflected in the water makes it seem as if they are floating in the sky. I think that this allows there to be a slight surreal aspect the image. I do think that the power station building in the background could do with some improving, It's not as detailed as I would have likes it and I found it difficult to get the clean, fine lines that I wanted with the brushed that I was using. When looking at this work I really enjoy how vibrant the colours are, and I think that this helps the work to feel inviting and open. I also think that the expanse of sky and water cause the image to seems vast, and I think that it is easy to imagine that the landscape carries on for miles outside of the frame. I am proud of this attempt and I wish to continue to improve my painting skills.