I started a small project yesterday which involves making a few pastel interiors of my studio using natural light. The biggest challenge with drawing or painting using natural light is that the light conditions are constantly changing. It is very noticeable when looking at cast lights or shadows, as within minutes a viewer can see them slowly move and change. After an hour, they may be in completely new positions. The artist has to constantly adjust the composition of the lights and shadows, and in the end, they may be left with a confusing or dull image.
The solution to working with natural light is to limit the time. With these pastels, I am working for less than twenty minutes, and I will return the next day at the same time. That way, I will see the same setting that inspired me in the first place.
Michael, April 26, 2023
Michael Newberry 