In the process of working on figure themed paintings I opened myself to some new approaches.  One of the most recent and exciting approach was to take  figure paintings I was less than satisfied with and simplify the strongest design elements such as the figures, and then work on playing with the negative space around the figures.  I was able to get much more free with the line, color and sense of space once I freed myself from the need place figures in a realistic background.

My first try was the simple figure taken from a sketch done at life drawing.  I did love the initial pose and shape but let myself play with the internal shapes, without regard to overall figure.  After much play I then had to work on pulling the elements back together, adding emphasis and taking away contrast.  The thrill and sense of experimentation tells me that I need to continue to explore this new path!