Critique – Olga Chumakova

Olga Chumakova
Olga Chumakova

Student’s Comments:

What I like:

It is hard to say what I like about my painting. It is my birthplace: this small town Braslav surrounded by lakes. Now I am far away and used reference photo, which my brother sent to me. I remember my childhood there and ice drift on the lakes, cold wind, clouds and quick changes from winter to spring. I wanted to show this spring movement.

What could be improved for next time:

Borders of the melt water should be more soft on the left side. Foreground has to show transparent water and sand dunes in shallow water. I am not completely sure that it is clear for everybody.

Dan’s Comments:

Stunning painting Olga!

What I like:

  • The water in the foreground is fantastic. Intricate yet not overdone.
  • I like how you taper off the detail as things recede into the distance. Good use of atmospheric perspective.
  • The overall color theme and composition are pleasing to the eye.
  • There’s an interesting play between horizontal strokes in the water and the vertical strokes for the plants in the foreground.

What could be improved for next time:

  • My eyes are looking for a few hard edges in the sky. It would sharpen the image as a whole.
  • You could emphasize the horizon line by adding a touch of light above or below.
  • Nothing more to say. Beautiful work!