Reflections – 24 x 24 – Acrylic on Wood
I’ve been working some more on the leaves of this tree, watching the play of light in and amongst them. It’s one of those fall days that still holds some warmth, although the low clouds promise rain. I step outside and the wonderful colours I’m using are all around me. The rain begins and the warm ochres and reds of the leaves still clinging to the trees are that much deeper and the air smells like the forest – even in the city.
I love painting in time with the seasons – well at least when it’s fall I do. 
fine art contemporary abstract hard edge painting by mandy budan
Hey, Mandy. Looks like you have another great work started. How do you do your designs? Do you start with a reference picture and see the shapes forming within them? Or maybe they start as a color sketch that you build on. I’m ever so curious since I love how you see the world.
Thanks Dawn!
I do start with a reference photo (sometimes more than one, sometimes some sketches too) and I try to see what kind of shapes it wants to be. Sometimes I have to refine the shapes several times to get to the essence of it. And then once it’s on the panel and I’m actually painting it, the painting itself directs me and the shapes can change (or not) yet again.
It’s a lot of fun because although I have a plan and an idea, I don’t really know how it’s going to turn out.
I just found your site and am so imporessed with your creative process and the wonderful paintings you produce. Wow!
Thanks Katherine! Your work is beautiful too! I love your fragility series.