FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) Future "Education Page"
Questions and answers will be added on an ongoing basis. If you have a question, email it to nancy@nblewis.com, and it will be answered by a knowledgeable PALS member.
Q:
Should a person spray a pastel painting with a fixative?
A:(Lise MacGregor)
Never on the final painting, use only when needed during the painting process to fix a color. If you look at pastel under a microscope, it is faceted like a diamond, so light bounces off and gives pastel that luminous quality it is known for. Fixative on the final layer will just dull the painting and darken the color. There are new fixatives out there now that claim to retain the quality and luminosity of the pastel, but most all pastel artists still refuse to fix their work when finished.
Q:Are photos adequate to use for painting references?
A:(Lise MacGregor)
Yes, as long as one remembers that a lot of detail is lost and colors may not be true to the actual subject/scene. Also, everything is "flat" and it really can inhibit one's ability to "see" what is really there . Photos can also distort images or lose depth so are not really accurate compared to being there in person. But often photos must be used as a reference when weather or time is an element involved. The best thing to do is to take notes when taking the photo so you can be sure to jot down any important elements the camera may miss (color, edges, values). If you CAN paint from life, it is best since you can interpret the subject YOUR way, and not rely totally on the camera's view. If you do use photos, just remember to use your OWN, photos are copyrighted and there are strict laws regarding use.
Q. How can I keep my oil paint that is on the palette?
A. There are a number of methods.
1. Using the palette that is plastic box style with a lid. Place a damp sponge in the center, close the lid tightly, rewet the sponge once a week.
2. Cover with light plastic wrap or foil and place in the freezer.
3. Submerge under water.
Q. How can I speed the drying time of my oil painting.
A.
1. Add commercial drying mediums to the paint.
2. If it is summer, place the painting inside your car on the dashboard in full sun with doors and windows closed.
Q. My abstract piece just doesn't look right what can I do?
A. Try turning it upside down or sideways. Or look at it in a mirror. You never know what you will discover!
Q: What is the best way to learn about art?
A:(David Cook) Go to galleries, be self taught and learn to live with failure.
Q: Can I use a photograph from the newspaper as inspiration for a painting?
A:(Lise MacGregor) Any photograph one uses as a reference for a painting must be used as a reference only. Photos are copyrighted, as is the written word and all artwork. There are stiff copyright rules to abide by, and if one wants to "duplicate" the photo in any way (even the smallest detail that is recognizable) a person must get written permission from the photographer to use the image as agreed upon.
Q: What is pleine air?
A:(David Cook) Painting outside.
Q: What should I paint?
A:(David Cook) The beauty of what you want others to see.