Are you familiar with this painting by John Singer Sargent titled Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose (oil on canvas, 1885-86)?
Autumn, twilight, setting sun, fragrant flowers, multi-colored white dresses, children lighting lanterns…my mind escapes into this image and I can almost smell those intoxicating lilies.
A few years ago, in my effort to learn painting techniques, I started a study of this painting. Here’s as far as I got with the underpainting, along with the notes I wrote on the backside of the paper:
I’m giving these to you small.
The theme of lanterns at evening gatherings showed up in the paintings of many other artists.
Here’s a few more to feast your eyes and maybe set your mind to wandering in that warm glow.
Luther Van Gorter 1895
Julio Vila Prades La ni a de la lampara
Warwick Goble from The Star Lovers
To further my escape I spent a few minutes one night last week setting up a few lighted candles in metal lanterns and placing them near my white rose-bush (Iceberg Rose) now in full bloom. Here’s my best photos:
When an idea enters my mind, of something I want to try, I play out the idea. These photos were one of those experimental moments. Enjoy!
And here’s one more lantern painting:
Percy Gibbs “River Promenade”
Wonderful things! Thanks for the inspiration. I love lanterns and have been working on a paper model for a while. For more ideas check out http://www.welfare-state.org/ They are a British group that promotes lantern parades. Hugs, M
Hi M,
I look forward to seeing your paper lantern in a future newsletter. Thanks for the link, I will check them out. LR