night bloomer - colored pencil

[sagegale]

haven't done much using colored art paper - comments, technique suggestions?


2nd pic is application of Joe's suggestions - better?

[Singular]

Nice composition, but could use more contrast. The flower needs to pop and the leaves look very week with the dark background.

all the best,
Joe

[sagegale]

Thank you Joe, I posted a second picture after doing some reworking of the flower and stems and added some stars in the background. These forums are invaluable to somebody like me that lives in a remote area and doesn't have an art network close by.

[Singular]

big improvement. well done.

[SidneyEileen]

Nice composition. It has a lot of potential, and the second posting is a great improvement on the first.

I've done a lot of work on black paper, and it really pops when there is very high contrast. The art does not need to look outlined, so don't be afraid to have the shadow side of the figure very faint. Also, keep in mind where the light is coming from, and where shadows will cast. The moon in the upper right gives the impression that the light should be coming from that direction. The various petals and leaves of the flower should be casting shadows on the leaves and petals further from the light source. If you add in those shadows, it will help give the drawing more realism and depth. Eraser doesn't usually work very well, but black pencil can sometimes be used to regain lost darkness.

[sagegale]

thank you for the helpful comments. I think this website is a wonderful resource and this forum is such a great place for people who want to learn. I like moonlight but haven't been able to capture it the way I want to. Your comments give me specific goals to work on. Thanks again

[SidneyEileen]

You are most welcome. I look forward to seeing what you make in the future.