Final Still Life

Charcoal, Pan Pastel, Canson Mi Tientes 19x20

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I was very excited, (yet nervous) to take on such an involved composition. After blocking out the main shapes and values with the Pan Pastel, I got to work on the bust. I was aware he would be the most prominent, along with the most time-consuming.

From there I moved to Pooh and his fury texture, which at first I created with a stippling technique. I then went in and gave the duck some shape and volume. In a single, (long) studio session I quickly tackled the glass, bone, kettle, and some of the truck. I gave the drapes some touch-ups and added some creases to the fabric behind, and the piece was complete.

Probably the most challenging aspect was working with a middle gray surface. It widened the range of values, but having the ability to add white, make it pop, but not overdo it proved somewhat difficult. The change to cross-hatching on the bear and extra white on the bust really helped the piece stand out.

Overall, this piece taught me many lessons and I am very proud of how it turned out. And, I would highly recommend having Pooh as a model.

-JA