Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Old Man with a Praying Wheel

Old Man with a Praying Wheel
Watercolor on Paper, 12"x9"

I have decided to work more on my watercolor.So far the dilemma has been, 'how much detail?' For the time being, I will be going with detail.Lets see if the realism suits my temperament.I have put in some effort here with the detail, considering that its a relatively small artwork.I think I will be working more on some smaller but more detailed work in near future- though I am not ruling out the pastels as yet.
Its a Pilgrim from Ladakh region of India spinning a prayer wheel. These hand held praying wheels are used by Buddhists of Tibet, Nepal and Ladakh. It is a metal cylinder containing a tightly wound scroll printed with a mantra.It is believed that spinning a prayer wheel is just as effective as reciting the sacred texts aloud.
Reference picture was provided by a friend who visited the region some time ago.
I welcome any comments and suggestion, as always.

11 comments:

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  2. Hi Arti. His face is wonderful!!! "IF: it was my painting, I'd be tempted to darken his face slightly, and the background quite a lot, to give a sense of mystery and more depth.

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    1. Ah...I don't know,Katheryn.I tried it in a previous attempt but did not like it! I might post that vesion,too...

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  3. You can paint everything, detail or not. This is great.

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    1. Thanks Tony, you have been a great support.

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  4. This is a fantastic watercolor Arti!!! Beautiful skin tones, color and expression. Wonderful job on his praying wheel..the wood looks amazing.
    LOVE THIS PIECE!!!

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    1. Thanks, Hilda I am so glad to have painted something that I finally approve ;)

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  5. Arti, I never have criticisms of your work and I think this is fantastic. I personally think your work is always amazing, especially your graphite portraits.

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  6. Absolutely incredible Arti! the wash behind him is a captivating and effective as he is! your work continues to impress and inspire.

    and thank you for your very kind and supportive comments, you know how much they mean to me.

    again, amazing work as always my friend! enjoy the weekend!

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    1. Thank you so much, Suzanne, it means so much.I am so blessed to have friends like you!I hope you are working on a new painting,too.

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