Most unforgettable paintings begin
with an unforgettable idea.

Yes, there are some paintings that take your breath away just because the technique is so brilliant, but for the most part, it is the content that matters most.

Here is an idea for getting you started: Capture an unforgettable moment.

I was a competitive ballroom dancer for
many years and I still catch every dance
show on TV. Sometimes I sketch dancers directly from the show, but I have also learned to record my favorite shows. 
That way I can go back and look for
the perfect moments to paint.

What inspired the piece “Hey, Mambo!” was the flirtatiousness of a couple on the television show, So You Think You Can Dance. The boy was all awkward elbows and knees trying to impress the girl.

SKETCHES

 I recorded these dancers on my VCR
and later did the sketches from the tape.
I use the sketches to capture the dance
movements and gestures. 

In my dance paintings the anatomy is
only important in conveying the feel of
the dance.

STEP 1

Using a thin acrylic wash, I establish
the basic colors and composition. 

I am working on Colorfix pastel paper, which has a good texture for pastel and also a primed coat to accept wet media.

STEP 2

I block in the painting with thick, loose pastel strokes. 

I stick to just a few colors and I separate the subject from the negative space.This allows me to assess the overall design.

STEP 3

I concentrate on the background. I add several layers of blue and blue-green strokes and then blend to get a smooth surface.

I have darkened the lower section to
give it more weight.

STEP 4

I add yellow accents and start to develop highlights and shadows within the figures.

FINAL

I further refine the figures. My focus is on the movement of the dance and the relationship between the dancers; so I have eliminated anything that doesn’t support that. 

My technique for building color is to lay down loose strokes of color, blend with my fingertips, add more color, blend and add more color. I leave unblended strokes on the final surface to give more visual interest.