What would you do ?

billj

This is Pastel on 14" x 17" 100 lb, Vellum surface. My question is; what to do with the background ?, leave it as is, blend in browns, light around subject fading to dark brown to the edge. scumble in different shades, or a solid. Welcome your opinion. Thanks

mavis_swt

@billj
What are you trying to achieve in this artwork?

billj

I`m trying to decide if the background is good as is or if I should do something that will improve the overall look of the painting.

Savannah

I've always loved Marilyn.....and you've captured her so well....of course its your choice, you can do whatever you like in the background...here's a few quick change examples...might give you some ideas....I kinda like #3...muted violet...seems to accent her eyes and mouth more...

Rosanne

I would put in a dark back ground, but that's me I like dark back grounds to bring out my subject.

studioania

This is my Marilyn's version in oil, I chosed this background ... I hope I've given you an idea.
Ciao Maria

Pop

I'm really bad at making these decisions I find it really hard to put in a background that wasn't there originally, but I'm quite liking Savannah's suggestion of number 3, but I think number 1 looks good as well ... good luck I know how hard this process can be.

Ronna

I like this drawing Bill. Well done. I think anything light would be nice.

DJ_Nine

I would go with maybe a retro style to depict the early times when she started off. Give a classic look. Someone suggested purple witch is a retro color. I would google some things, maybe put some commercial elements like an old coca-cola style logos or something

billj

Thanks everyone, I think Kingstons right, I`m going to leave the plain white background. Her face can stand alone.