Midstream changes

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I shifted course today, and went to work on 3 paintings in my encaustic series of seasonal studies.  I thought it might me interesting to show how the paintings evolve from the hues and tones laid down in the underpainting, to the final color palette once the encaustic painting is completed. The underpainting on these 3 small works is done.  Working on unprimed hardwood panels (these are 3 by 5 inches) I build layers of watercolor washes. Once the underpainting is completely dry, the watercolor paint doesn't inhibit the encaustic paint from bonding to the panel in the final phase.  Working with an underpainting is a traditional painting technique and allows me to work out the value relationships and composition for the story I want to tell.   Next comes the fun part - heating up the beeswax medium and the palette of handmade encaustic paints. When the paintings are completed I'll post them to this blog, and on my etsy shop at www.etsy.com/shop/composegrace

I'll work some more on the wristlet drawings on cotton twill later tonight, and post the updates over the weekend.  

Bookmark me and check back to see these projects evolve.  Your comments or questions are welcomed!