Since my last painting, I have been able to see how creating a charcoal study of the composition beforehand has helped me with the process of developing a final image. To work in this way has enabled me to consider the different elements in a simplified way (focusing on tonal value) and also work out the most effective canvas scale for the composition, before diving straight into painting! This is something I will continue to do throughout the semester, to ensure that I create paintings that are as refined as possible, ready for the end of year Exhibition in May!

