Need some opinions here please!

[chipper67]

Hello,

I'm working on a relief from one of Everett Ellenwood's designs. It is a flower in basswood. I'm looking for some opinions on this one. I just cannot decide on whether or not to paint the flower or just keep it natural. What would you do? And how would you go about it in either case?

Also, what do you think about the background? Would it be better to texture it somehow? Either with gouge marks radiating from the center of the flower or maybe use a carver's punch on the whole background or just leave as is?

Thanks,

Chipper67

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

I like it natural....

[aulddiy]

I like it as it is.
Then it depends , if you can add to it by painting why not. Could be the question is how good are you at painting?

[DiamondWillow]

Just as it is.....looks great.


Gene

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

I would leave it natural, but texture the background. BTW, it looks really good.

Dave

[markken5889]

Beautiful piece, Chipper. I really like this one! While I think it looks great natural, think about a posting Joe (makinchhips) did awhile back about mixing oil paint with natural stain and put a nice wash on it. Maybe fainter still for the background???

Just a thought...

Mark

[Lonewolfcarver]

I like it as is however you could add a border around the outside edge or as markken said add a nice wash on it.

[chipper67]

Thanks everyone for your input. We'll see what happens.

Chipper67

[Kenny_S]

Looks nice as it is but a wash would enhance the whole project. JMHO!

[Mottles]

Hi Chipper67:
While I was reading your thread introduction I was thinking I would probably leave it natural and texture the background. This comes from a simi-reformed 'she paints everything' gal.
After seeing your relief carving I wouldn't texture the background I like the simplicity of the piece. It stands on it's own as we see it now.
Kathy