Inspiration & Transformation: Part II

by Tracey Maras

In my previous blog, I presented two questions when beginning any painting, “How can I make this better?” and, “How can I make it communicate what I want to say?” Whether it begins as an image in our mind, in front of us from real life, or from a reference photo, these questions are paramount to a successful painting.

Since many of my paintings incorporate wildlife, I must frequently rely on quickly taken photos to capture the moment. Rarely, if ever, are these photos usable as stand-alone photos. Many times, they have been taken through a car window, panning rapidly to try to keep up with an animal that is running/flying, or including an environment that is not ideal for a finished painting. Therefore, my reference photos serve as the initial inspiration only.

Take for example an unexpected encounter this Spring. On a drive to visit my parents, we spotted a flock of swans pausing to rest in a bare field before they continued their migration Northward. In anticipation of these types of moments, I almost always have my camera at my side. My husband pulled over for a few minutes so I could snap some quick photos. Then on our return visit home, he drove back the same route just in case they were still in the field. Not only was I able to get photos as they rested, but also as they took flight.

As seen in the photos, overcast light and muddy fields were not the most inspiring for a dramatic painting. But with about 30 photos at my disposal, I was ready to address the questions of “what did I want to communicate” and “how could I make it better.”

I worked out several designs through small (2×3”) thumbnail sketches and have already selected 4 designs for paintings.

That single day’s chance encounter has provided so much inspiration that I cannot say how many paintings will result. But it is exciting to consider where the transformations will lead.