I worked all day on the fruits and vegetables and the shadow side of
the building. Progress was slow because some of the items were so
small. At this stage there is still a lot of adjusting. Through
controling the different directions in which the figures face I created
strong tension within the dynamic of the figures on the steps. In this
way I created unity, which is hard to achieve in a large grouping of
people.

I am working on the figures at the very top of the steps today. There
are three figures on the left of the entrance together with the wares
they are selling. I am bringing these up to the same stage of
development.

I am developing the building now. Adding more darks and working out the
shapes of the tarps. My reference photo had several areas that have to
be changed. Here is my original photo. As you can see there are many
people and articles that cannot be used. I have selected from many
photographs that I took on this trip, a number of figures and items
that can be added that will combine to make a good composition.
Sometimes I have to try several before I find just the right
combination. It is a slow process and somedays it might seem that I
haven't accomplished a great deal. You might wonder when you see the
original photo, what I saw in it. I liked the power of the building
with the large entrance at the top of the stairs. I knew that if I
could design the painting with the right figures and objects that it
would make a dramatic scene.

I am starting to develop the area on the left side. I have drawn in the
vegetables and baskets on the landing of the steps. I am blocking it in
with thin washes of color. I added several figures along the top left,
and then decided they were too small. Didn't accomplish much as I
painted out more than I painted in! It is difficult to add figures to a
scene like this. You have to consider perspective, lighting and so much
more. Will make a fresh start on Monday.