Most of you appreciate the fact that I am a perfectionist in some things, my art being one of them, the others being my horse, and the quality of my care in my profession. I admit my car looks like it lost a fight with a load of hay, and my house is almost always ready for Halloween, with dust and cobwebs. But they aren't that important to me.
The only way to really improve A LOT is to work like the devil under the guidance of a more experienced practitioner. Anne Zoutsos is my mentor in animal portraiture.
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| Not the best model for a portrait. |
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| We created this painting of Cindy. |
I first "met" Anne when working on a difficult portrait [above] for a friend. I loved Anne's wit and humor, and most importantly that she was totally frank with her painting opinions. I ask for it - I get it! I have seen my work improve very noticeably from the several "sessions" we have conducted over the ether.
Perhaps I seemed to be griping - only in jest. And the nickname I gave Anne is from the original 1930's Flash Gordon movies. [No, I'm not that old.] If you watch them, you'll understand the joke.
I can only say I am very fortunate to have Anne as a mentor and a "far-away" friend. And if you want to give your eyes a thrill, I strongly recommend you visit her site.
I agree that it's good to have a Frank but 'tactful' and most importantly helpful art critique.
ReplyDeleteThat dog has ATTITUDE, lol! :0)
I have been mentored in writing, but never in my drawing. Both are solo events,as you know, and a good mentor can be a blessing. To find a good honest 'critic' can be difficult, for too much praise can be as damaging as the antithesis. But you know all this ... :0)
ReplyDeleteLove the dog :0)
How lucky to find a mentor AND a friend! And the painting you did of Cindy is fab!! What a look! xx
ReplyDeleteThat mentor lady does some fantastic art work! We went to look.
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tweedles
I looked at Ann's work and all I could say was WOW! The lady holds in her brush. You're fortunate to have her as a mentor and friend. She's spectacular with fur and her guidance can be seen in your work. Hold on to that lady.
ReplyDeleteHa! This Anne is that Anne! I love her animal painting too. It's always to have a good friend who gives honest critiques. I -appreciate those mistakes pointed out by a sharp eye too. ;=)
ReplyDeleteYou were jesting? Darn, and just when I got the light sabre working again!
ReplyDeleteAnn's art is outstanding - as is yours xx
Oh my Gosh, Kathryn!!! I have visited Anne's website and she is absolutely amazing!! In my last post, I told you that being critiqued is one person's opinion, however, her opinion is who I would definitely listen to...I would be so proud to have her as my mentor..she's fabulous! Cindy is beautiful so far and I look forward to your next post!
ReplyDeleteHey things are looking good. I have been away a bit and just catching up with your posts. You are very lucky to have a mentor to go through your work with you. She really takes her time and looks at your pieces and that is such a valuable process. I definitely see your work growing and changing it must make you pleased to see it as well. Having said that, I love that duck you said that you did awhile ago!!
ReplyDeleteKathryn - how many times have I told you not to call me Frank?!!
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