Is it really September 4th 2017 when I last worked on this painting? Much has happened since then, not least I have finally got a good working photo of the pair on the identical terrace. I had to go to Nice to get it (but that was fun) and the pose has more animation now.
I have painted out his head and part of hers, and also painted out the feet. These areas had begun to show a little “halo” of adjustments, not quite matching the background, looking dirty. I don’t think that I need to paint out the rest of the figures – I think I can change them as necessary. We have a different colour scheme which will help, and the new pose is encouraging as it makes the painting more friendly.
I have done a line drawing to help me position the figures. Her head is not quite right as she is looking at him and smiling! But the figures themselves are right relative to each other. She has opted for a long dress, which makes things easier, and his pose means that I don’t have to do him full face (and he is pleased about that). This looks like a win-win situation!
And the drawing has worked well, too!
Yes, very well. Very natural and relaxed.