Photographic images lurk within my paintings. Sometimes they are in your face and sometimes they are shadowy, barely visible and understated. Some figures are even completely overpainted
This raises two questions – why do I use photographic images and text when I could paint realistic paintings of people without resorting to collage; and what is their purpose in a painting where they are out of context?
I will begin by answering the second question.
In my still life paintings I like the structure that a figure adds, the torn edge of the paper, close surface interest and a sense of mystery. I also add text to include a feeling of pattern and sometimes words which resonate with me. Sometimes the text is knocked back and sometimes not – this is usually an aesthetic decision.
Chartreuse with red berries 25cm x 20cm: Image on panel with oils and aluminium: The title suggests that the flamboyant woman’s name is ‘Chartreuse’
Smoke Bush 25cm x 20cm: Image on panel with oils and stamped lettering. The young male model is behind the smoke bush or Cotonis Coggygria
I use photographic images of models because the figure is isolated with a minimalist background, and is either gazing at the viewer or conscious of the viewer. The figure needs to be almost incidental to the painting to give me the freedom to manipulate them in whichever way works best visually. Using collage gives that sense of freedom and it comes with surprises and challenges.
Lilies for Alison, 80cm x 1000cm: Oils on panels over images hosts two distinctive people and some hidden people. If you look at the right hand side, top and bottom; you can see figures.
Hellebore for Jude 50cm x 60cm. Oils on panels over images with added gold – A face peeps out just below the pink flower on the right hand side.
In the meantime, it is the Christmas sale on 4th September.
It is a friendly affair in my cosy studio and home at 41 Limetrees, serving free mulled wine and mince pies with a sale of fabulous art. We welcome friends who’d like to browse and chat. All the artwork will have a one-day-only special price and there are smaller items which make great gifts.
Jo will have her lovely pottery.
Lisa Wallis (Moon Gazed) will be showing her bespoke mistletoe and celestial inspired Christmas collection available for commission ordering in time for yule along with personalised handcrafted gift vouchers. I have my quirky watercolours – as giclees or originals, contemporary still life oils and the White Horse and Old Stones paintings. There are greetings cards – you can make up a gift-set with free ribbon!
Don’t forget to buy my fabulous fudge – sold in aid of Women’s Refuge.
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