I was happy with the progress on this abstract painting commission, but felt it needed some sharpening and texture to complete the effect. First, I drew lines with raw sienna, using it to lighten up some of the dark brown areas, as well as to extend the central image into the top and bottom portions of the painting.
Next, I drew with burnt umber, allowing those lines to extend into the light colored background as well. I also used the brown lines to sharpen the definitions of other shapes and colors. I wanted to keep the loose, improvisational effect that I already had, so I was careful not to overdo the outlining of shapes.
It is always important, at this stage of the painting process, to be careful not to overwork an image to the point that you take its life away. One could always add more, but stopping at the right time is key to keeping an image fresh.
