This is the University Chicken Grill. There are good chicken wraps and chops there. The grill is across from the University of Miami, and the seats there are Orange and Green. Color is important.
As Myrna Wacknov (a very talented and adventurous artist) taught me, learned treatises have been written on color. And I've absorbed just a fraction of what I need to know.
So how does an artist choose colors? I know that for most works I scrutinize my colors and try for balance across the page.
For this one I had trouble deciding what color to paint the jacket of the blonde woman on the left. But ultimately my decision was made. And I'd like to give you a glimpse into my process.
I painted part of this at the Chicken Grill itself. But parts were painted elsewhere as I was sitting at a booth at another restaurant. And as I was painting, a young girl, curious and fearless, about 7 years old, walked up to me and asked if she could see what I was doing. So I showed her this page of my watercolor Moleskine, and some other works-in-process. Her parents looked on nervously, so I gave them a reassuring smile. Satisfied, the girl walked back to them.
About ten minutes later she came back, with her younger brother in tow. He was about 5.
"Can I watch you paint?" the girl asked.
"Why sure!" I said.
"Oh boy!", said her younger brother. And as the girl leaned over to see, her younger brother hopped up on the booth seat next to me to watch as well.
"And it has to be red!" said the boy.
And that's how I chose the color.
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Exceptional sketch.
ReplyDeleteBoy will grow up to be an art director.
Lovely tale! So that's how good artists choose their colours...! Anyway, it clearly worked well - great sketch.
ReplyDeleteVery nice sketch - I really like all the details you put in. The colors look great and the painting on the seats of the booths is really nice the way you got that shine along the curves. As for the coat? Perfect. Kids are so great, aren't they! nancy
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story, you are as good as drawing as writing!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on your new co-project with Raena, a wonderful idea that will bring treasures.
I like your lady with two dogs, the starting point of the book. To me she appeared to be a Roman lady (from Rome, not an ancient lady )
Nicely done sketch! What a complement to you that the children felt comfortable enough to ask if they could watch you. For me, that is the best part of sketching in public--when children become engaged in some way.
ReplyDeleteYou big softy you. I so glad you included the kids in the art. Thanks for being such a interesting and caring artist. Viewing your site is always an adventure.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a good way to choose colors.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really nice sketch - you put in lots of detail, but it's not fussy or crowded. The atmosphere feels so authentic. I'm sure I'd experience 'déjà vu' if I ever wandered in there.
Great story, as usual. As for the drawing, I think I'm seeing a new depth I haven't seen before. The colors are richer and more varied. Excellent! And the body positions are exactly what you'd see in a sandwich place. Way to go!
ReplyDeleteTwo things strike me... you eat out a lot and you're really good with kids!! Lovely sketch. I like how you render realistically and artistically all at the same time. You continue to inspire young man. :-))
ReplyDeleteThose kids will always remember the "artist at the restaurant." Good perspective--that can be difficult when there are seats, counters, people, hanging lights, and display cases.
ReplyDeleteSo THAT'S your secret!! Well, your sketch is excellent, and even though you had help from an expert, I still give you credit for the rest! LOL. You always have the best stories! By the way, received the moleskine, and you were not kidding....it is SO, so much better in person! Wow, the color variation is amazing! Great work!
ReplyDeleteYou can never go wrong with red. Great sketch and I love the story that goes with it.
ReplyDeleteRed is my wife's favorite color :) So by default, red is beautiful in my life now...teeeheee. A great story, and nice sketch Dan!
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the story and the sketch. It's hard for me to call it a sketch as it's really more of a painting. It tells a whole story so shouldn't it be a painting?
ReplyDeleteI think those kids are going to remember you and your painting. They may not remember it clearly later on but their art vibes will be in the happy zone. Wonderful!
Kids are great at choosing colors. They are willing to consider all possibilities and then some. Remember Jake and the purple cat? Anyway, the watercolor looks great.
ReplyDeleteA great sketch and a great story!! I love reading your blog :-)
ReplyDeleteI have given you the Kreativ Bloger Award. Check my blog Ramona's Art Journal for details.
ReplyDeleteLove the sketch and the story is priceless. You are a good person and an excellent artist. Thanks for joining my blog, Dan. I've been very interested in your comments on Kathy's blog. You are sincere and thoughtful.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story - and good that you're comfortable with having people watch as you work. No way could I do that!
ReplyDeleteI really like your style, Dan. I'll be sure to return to see more!
A great story indeed. A wonderful sketch is the result. I applaud you on being so accommodating to those children. They will remember you for that as well as being such a talented artist. :)
ReplyDeleteVery interesting and insightful Thank you Dan.
ReplyDeleteKarena
Art by Karena
Love the drawing, it's detailed, cool and full of life (in french we'd call that "tranche de vie - slice of life!). And I love the tip about choosing the colors, a lot ; ) !
ReplyDeleteYou are a great storyteller, Dan! Great post and great sketch.
ReplyDeleteDan... your secret has been revealed, now everyone will want a little boy color consultant. Great sketch and story... I love reading your blog it is so entertaining.
ReplyDeleteGreat story! Neat drawing.
ReplyDeleteVery good.
ReplyDeleteGood creations.