So, I did not technically paint this one today.. but it is a VERY recent painting of mine and is currently hanging in the Studio B show - Flora and Fauna. AND, it is an award winner! I am quite happy with this painting as it is a return to my exploration of the theme Spirit Animal, which I explored in many paintings a few years back. The time is ripe to revisit this theme and as such, I feel affirmed that the very first painting I have completed and shown has gained some attention. To further explore this theme, I am trying my take at combining abstraction with realism, something that has fascinated me for some time, yet until now, I've not been happy with my results. I will be further exploring this combination as well as part of my new Spirit Animals and am excited to see where it takes me.
(by the way, if you get the chance to see the show in person, please do! It is a wonderful show filled with an eclectic mix of local talent. Info below..)
"A Windsong of Balance", oil and mixed media on panel, 16"x16", $790
The two birds represent the iconic and opposing forces of yin and yang.. and the necessity and inevitability of both in our world. If you look closely, you can see a portion of the yin yang symbol in the background.. I painted this on a panel that I textured ahead of time with a texturing medium I whipped up using PVA glue, marble dust and gesso... a recipe I found, where else, but on the net... There are many variations of this recipe to be found, but they basically all call for varying proportions of PVA to add elasticity, marble dust for the texture and gesso probably for opacity and as a binder. I experimented around until I found a recipe that I like. The painting was done in many layers from there, which is a complete diversion from how I normally work. I tend to prefer to paint in a style called Alla Prima, meaning all at once. But, this painting took me several painting sessions, allowing layers to dry in between, until it was complete.
There will be more to come with this technique and theme! :)
Below are details of the painting that better show texture and paint application.
Studio B is located at 39 E Philadelphia Ave, Boyertown, PA 19512.
Contact them at (610) 563-7879 for purchasing details.
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