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If you Google "pochade" or "pochade boxes," you will find a reaching for definition. To me, the French word refers to a quick sketch or finished painting that is achieved in the box you can carry around inside the house and out. I have several boxes and many paintings that I have made. You can spend hundreds of dollars or take a bit of time to craft a box and the paintings yourself! I painted Lucy and Arthur in the living room, on the stuffed chair, pochade box on the cocktail table. There is some invention.
Think about the wooden cigar boxes that might be converted or the first wooden box you got filled with oils or acrylics. In my versions, all different, I like to have three slots in the top to hold wet canvas boards. I have to have a
flip top or
opening on the top so that I can insert the canvas board. One needs a brace of some sort for the side to hold the top open at the proper angle for painting. To make channels for the canvas, I have found plastic pieces in architecture sections of a craft store and glued them next to each other. Joe cut channels on my first one on his big table saw that he won't let me use. He doesn't remember this because it was 30 years ago when I first read about a pochade box in an English art book and none were available (or before I was heavily into Googling). Google "pochade boxes" today to get ideas or see what is available.
I thought of these boxes because our dear dog Farley had to cross the rainbow bridge day before yesterday, and I wondered if I had ever painted him. Yes, many times, but using an easel, not a pochade box. As the snow falls, you might enjoy the diversion of crafting a pochade box! Bon Pochade!
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| thinking of Farley |
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| open top version |
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| flip top version |
Think about the wooden cigar boxes that might be converted or the first wooden box you got filled with oils or acrylics. In my versions, all different, I like to have three slots in the top to hold wet canvas boards. I have to have a flip top or opening on the top so that I can insert the canvas board. One needs a brace of some sort for the side to hold the top open at the proper angle for painting. To make channels for the canvas, I have found plastic pieces in architecture sections of a craft store and glued them next to each other. Joe cut channels on my first one on his big table saw that he won't let me use. He doesn't remember this because it was 30 years ago when I first read about a pochade box in an English art book and none were available (or before I was heavily into Googling). Google "pochade boxes" today to get ideas or see what is available.
I write instead of painting for my creative joy. I have journals scattered around the house for when the moment comes--they are my pochade boxes. Great entry.
ReplyDeleteOh, Farley--I remember when you told me about your 'puppy'!
Sixteen years ago!
DeleteThese are so neat. If I were on my computer and not the phone I would type more! But fascinating.
DeleteDear Farley - over the Rainbow Bridge. How lucky he was to be your pet - always loved his name. Interesting blog- as always, Linda.
DeleteSo sorry to hear about Farley. Its hard to loose our companions.
DeleteOh I'm so sorry to hear about Farley, he was such a sweet.
ReplyDeleteSorry Linda, meant to add "boy"! Thank you for the pochade explaination...never heard of this type of box before, but greatly useful to a painter.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to add that disposable under pads with the blue lining are great to lay across your lap, pochade box atop...and you can wipe your brushes on the absorbent parts....great for tables also...and your jeans are saved!
DeleteI love your box and the pictures. Farley's so sweet. I don't know Lucy and Arthur. From another time?
ReplyDeleteNM
I need a better photo of Lucy and Arthur...two special dogs from before Farley.
Delete