Study by the Dock

Hello all!

There are certain places, days, and subjects that any artist may gravitate toward. For me, the House Boat Dock is one of these places. When I find a good spot, it’s easy for me to overwork a painting (trying to get every single detail in perfectly) which, can oftentimes push me away from the original intent behind the piece.

Overworking a painting can get rid of the free and loose brushstrokes that I try to implement throughout the painting process. And so, some days I dedicate to little studies. Look here!

2020-L37-Unger-HouseBoatDock-5x7 / ‘House Boat Dock’ / Oil on Canvas / 5”x7” / Cassi Unger

Painting studies can be inside a sketchbook, drawing pad, or on smaller canvases. This is a great tool for plein air. Why??? Because of its size! If I bring out an 8x10 or 11x14 canvas, I’ll probably only get one good (hopefully) painting out of the day. However, if I bring out “lil’ guys”, here I used 5x7’s, I can do multiple paintings in the same location. This helps me not worry about creating the “perfect” painting.

Some artists use studies, like this one, as reference to create a larger scale painting in studio. Sometimes I do this, but usually I use studies to better understand an area so that I can come back and do a larger work on-site.

Have a colorful day,

xxCass