In my latest painting video, I embarked on a creative journey that started with an unfinished piece and transformed it into a vibrant zinnia. This project shows the beauty of reimagining and repurposing old works into something fresh and inspiring.
I started with an unfinished canvas which provided a unique foundation for this project. I began by adding collage elements from my own collection of papers, which gave the painting texture and depth from the very beginning. This layer of collage served as a rich, tactile background that would support the subsequent layers of paint.
Building the Background
For the background, I chose a harmonious blend of light blue, teal, yellow, and orange, accented with pops of opera pink and hints of purple. These colors created a vibrant and lively backdrop that set the stage for the zinnia. Each brushstroke in these shades added a sense of movement and life to the piece.
Sketching and Painting the Zinnia
With the background in place, I sketched the zinnia using an oil-based charcoal pencil. This allowed me to capture the delicate details and structure of the flower before applying any paint. For the zinnia’s petals, I used mostly yellow and orange, adding a touch of white to highlight the petals’ edges and create a sense of light and dimension. Soon I have realised that I needed to add more flower petals to my initial drawing. The stem and leaves were brought to life with vibrant greens, grounding the flower against its colorful backdrop.
Final Touches: Twigs and Flowers
To add an extra layer of interest and complexity, I sketched in some twigs and smaller flowers using a translucent white. This subtle addition not only complemented the zinnia but also tied the entire composition together, creating a cohesive and balanced piece.
Feel free to share your thoughts and let me know if you’ve tried something similar. Happy painting!
Watch the Transformation
Join me in this video as I guide you through each step of the process, from the initial collage work to the final details. Witness how an unfinished canvas can be transformed into a vibrant piece of art, full of color and life.
