A View from Lido
“A View from Lido” is drawn with Neocolor 1 and coloured pencils. 39.5 x 32 cm. November 2019.
On a hazy Sunday morning in the northern spring of 2019 we sit on a park bench on Lido and look out over the lagoon. A young seagull allows himself to be photographed and even gives me a minute to studiously compose before flying away.
In perfect tune with the universe (compositionally-speaking) a vaporetto appears.
In the watery distance San Giorgio Maggiore Benedictine church and campanile hover mirage-like.
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Julie Podstolski - Abstract Realism 
First I have to say how much I like this drawing. The composition is SO satisfying, the combination of crisp speed sign, soft-feathered gull and misty distance work together beautifully. Venice is a city that has cast a spell over so many people, especially writers and artists over the years and clearly Dickens not least! His writing is flowery but evocative and still accurate for the same place nearly 200 years on. The quotes from his book add to the drawing in an indefinable way.
Hi Anna, I often reflect on how no artwork is “in the bag” until it is done. The first few days of this one were touch and go as I struggled with all that sky (big areas of plain colour are not easy with coloured pencils). I was uncomfortable and a part of me said “stop”. However I worked through the dis-ease and about the third or fourth day I saw potential. I started to enjoy working on the soft buildings – and for the rest of it, the drawing was pure joy.
Nor did I see potential for a drawing for several months as I flipped past the source photo in my album. It is funny how one is not able to “see” artistic potential from a source until the time is right, whatever that time is. So there is something indefinable and non tamable about inspiration.
Persistence really does pay off doesn’t it, so often an artwork is telling you it’s all wrong early on, but if you can get through that often it becomes a favourite. With my works I find I often set them aside for a period of time – occasionally years! – and come back with a new eye. This one definitely deserved the gritted teeth through the interminable (but beautiful) sky.
Setting aside is a REALLY good idea but that takes self control. Now and then (very rarely) I have set a drawing aside and come back to it much later. But mostly the instinct (sometimes overwhelming) is to let rip.
On another note, Anna, I think it is today you are going away. Have an excellent trip!!!
I must admit – usually when I set a work aside it is in desperation, or simply not knowing where to go next rather than through any self discipline! Yes, we are now in Cowra, which is a lovely small town on the Lachlan River. I had hoped to write before I left, but time beat me! Hopefully I will be able to while we are away, but if not do have a wonderful trip yourself! A lovely time of year for it.