When we left off of stage 1 of my painting of my “photographer” hands, the image was just beginning to evolve. Below you can see that I have been working on the hands applying several layers of paint to create the three dimensional feel. The gears in the background are also finding their places in the composition.
I am liking the combination of the clock gears with the hands appearing to turn the vertebrae as if they were a camera. How are you reacting to this juxtaposition?
In this next phase (see below), you can see that I have applied a few layers of paint over the gear shapes. This is to push them back and not have them compete with the hands. The bones of the vertebrae are starting to become more articulate. (Our vertebrae are complex bones and not easy to draw!) Mixing the colors for this was a challenge because I wanted the bones to be evident, yet not get lost in the painting.
I decided that the background gears needed to feel more connected with each other. Hence, I added some additional shapes and lines to do this. By connecting them, they also work more effectively together as a plane behind the supporting the hands.
One or two times during my painting process, I will take a black and white photograph of my painting as you can see below. Why? Because this helps me to see the values or the lights and darks of the painting. I can determine if an area or shape needs more emphasis or less. A black and white rendition also make it easier to see where my eye goes and if my area of interest has the strongest contrasts. This is a very helpful step in the self-critique process. 
A title for this painting was a struggle. I had tons of words floating in my head while I was painting. (This is not always the case.) Such as: fine tuning, focus with purpose, a time to focus, re-alignment time, etc. To date, the current title is “A Focused Alignment.” Do you have any other suggestions?
As in all of my paintings for my current series “Windows to Wellness,” I have included a glass marble or bubble. It is there to remind you that life is a delicate balance. If we tip too far to one side or the other, our health can be jeopardized. Also, I think the marble lightens up the subject and it is one way I add my funky sense of humor.
What is your reaction to the marble? What are your overall thoughts about this painting? Your comments are always appreciated.
Please share this post with others who may be interested in a peek into my painting process. Perhaps you know a chiropractor who is also a photographer that might enjoy this painting…?
Commissioned or custom paintings are always welcome.
