Fallen Leaves: progression

Each day a little more gets done on "Fallen Leaves" but with this type of painting I need to take breaks.  Last week I purchased a number of cd's at a book sale so I have been checking them out as I've been working - seeing if they are 'conducive' to such detailed painting.  Classics for Relaxation and Meditation, CHANT by the Benedictine Monks of Santo Domingo De silos have 'passed the test' and I will listen to them often.

But my favourite so far is one I picked up at the local Book Store using a birthday gift certificate, which somehow makes it a bit more special.  The 2014 recording by VOCES8 titled, 'Eventide' - "the magical space between day and night.  Eight perfectly blended voices, embraced by ethereal instruments, make music to beguile, inspire and soothe." It includes such beautiful pieces as the Seal Lullaby, Underneath the Stars, Corpus christi Carol, Benedictus, Ave Maria, and my all time favourite, O magnum mysterium by Morten Lauridsen. 

Since I prefer absolute silence while painting this, having a cd on, is new for me and I am finding that it is okay.  When the music stops I actually consider taking a much needed stretch break. I need more of those breaks to release the tension which develops in my arm, shoulder and neck.  When I paint with acrylics I seem to use different muscles somehow... perhaps a different type of music will be needed then.

"Fallen Leaves" - progression so far...  next the finished painting!