Obsidian, sometimes known as lava glass, is what happens when lava cools before it can crystalize. It has been used by tribes for cutting tools and spear/arrow heads as well as for art, jewelry, and spiritual healing. When polished, which is the focus of this study, it is a near-perfect mirror.
This was probably far too difficult a subject for me given that I'm still learning to paint. I struggled mostly with blending, but overall I'm pleased. My [polybook](http://community.cgcookie.com/t/polybook-grifter/8313/2) contains many more details about the study.
That's a good idea drawing random odd shapes. I have tried that a few times in the past and never been satisfied, but I should give it another go.
I also struggle with perfectionism. Some tools I use to help me overcome:
1) Release my expectations of what I "should" be able to accomplish, and treat each project as if I'm a beginner. It's been easy with art because I am a beginner. I've been applying this same idea with programming projects, too.
2) If I don't like something, figure out exactly why and research how to fix it. This is better than discarding it as something hated.
So far, I think it's working. :)
I saw that. I think you and I have similar processes. Coming from software backgrounds (mine is hobby, but psychology is my field), we tend to tackle things in small chunks, like code. lol
I suffer from analysis paralysis -- it's all about perfection, which can cripple the creative spark. My goal is to allow myself to learn but not to be so hard on myself that I don't complete anything. Recently, I began drawing odd shapes and trying to use the shapes to create the product without worrying about all the anatomy, etc. It's been fun and surprising things have improved quickly.
Thank you! This was a fun, but exhausting exercise that took me several tries to get. I posted some of the WIP in my [community polybook](http://community.cgcookie.com/t/polybook-cgrifter/8313).
I love the material and your execution of it. It's obvious that you took the time to consider and reflect (no pun intended) on the material you chose. Good job. :-)