Wednesday, August 2, 2017

Ottumwa's "Battle of the Brushes" event

20"x16" Acrylic on stretched canvas

Saturday evening, July 29th, the Wapello Co. Arts Council sponsored a fundraiser called "Battle of the Brushes".  10 artists were chosen to participate.....given a theme to focus on in a 90 minute period.

Paint, brushes (our own were optional), table easels, canvas and disposable aprons were provided.  Our theme was "Riverfront".  Because the event was held in Ottumwa, I chose this view of Bridgeview Center and Wapello Bridge that spans over the Des Moines River.

I tried a new technique for me.......used a plastic grocery sack (wadded up tight in hand) dipped in paint and applied it in an abstract manner to create the sky and water in this work.  I loved the affect.  I'm definitely using this technique again and with oils.  If I had more time on this piece, I would've included palette knife strokes of color in the rest of the subject.

The finished artwork was auctioned off immediately after brushes were set down.  This was a first time event for the arts council.  I hope it will become an annual affair. It was a nice way to spend a Saturday evening!

1 comment: