Riding a tiger

When I was doing this years ago, there was always a point where I couldn't work a painting any further without it seizing up, becoming mannered or just tickled (and it showed). With this painting, I was able to keep it suspended longer, make critical changes and course corrections along the way...persist.

Painting #6 of 6       (30" x 31 1/4")

Details:

View preliminary states of the final painting below the break.

State #1

State #2

State #3

State #4

State #5   

State #6

State #7

State #8

 State #9

State #10 (final) Painting #6 of 6 (30" x 31 1/4")

This one is giving me trouble. I am able to undo "bad work" without losing the painting entirely. The edits and revisions give it a weight and sense of time that I visually like; process. But, I think I am at a crossroads. It is the "what do I really want to do?" painting. Do I answer the question now or work it out over subsequent paintings?

"Riding the tiger," as an approach to painting was encouraged by my instructors long ago; all of them disciplined and talented artists. The finished painting was to be a by-product of the struggle. So, the struggle continues.