I found an arresting succulent standing tall in the sprawling gardens of the Living Desert in Palm Desert. Its powerful triangular core, delicate leaves and wicked thorns made for an arresting sight.
Below are process shots to help you see the steps I took to complete the painting.
First I cover the gessoed panel with thinned Burnt Sienna.
Then I wipe it smooth.
I lay in a rough sketch using Burnt Sienna.
I establish my values by lifting out the lights and brushing in the darks.
After letting the value painting dry for several days I begin to lay in the background.
Then focus on the greenery.
Next I work on the colors of the succulent.
After several days of thought, I altered the background then added final lights and darks.