Steve Carmean

Hello! I began painting in 2017 when I retired. I began with acrylics and happily switched to oil paint about six months later. I took a few beginners courses at the Columbus Cultural Arts Center and have taken two in person alla prima workshops with still life painter Sarah Sedwick. I love her vibrance and brushwork.

I don’t always have as much time to paint as I’d originally imagined. Life seems to ‘get in the way’ often. In any case painting remains a passion. I am sometimes fairly happy with some of my work and have sold a few paintings but there is lots of room for improvement. I’d guess I have about three ‘failed’ paintings for every passable one. Like many painters I want to loosen up, which is harder than it seems!

I am drawn to portraits and urban landscapes (such as Edward Hopper’s) and sometimes still life. I don’t care much for landscapes. Too much green! I discovered Jane French’s portrait work on Instagram and it really speaks to me. Just stunning!

I need to improve my drawing skills somewhat but practicing sketching is something I avoid. I usually use a 9 square grid or proportion dividers for measurement. This is considered to be a copout by some. I have a graphic style of painting, which is ok with me, but I’d love to learn how to create more form by building up values.

I’m looking forward to learning more about mastering portraiture.