Process

Detail of Underpainting

I work in a series of contradictions. I usually start with no idea of where I am really going. However, sometimes I start with a colour., and sometimes that colour changes. I always start a painting on canvas with an underpainting of colour washes.

Detail of Underpainting

The colour washes are applied in thin layers. In places there will be one or two layers, in others there will be several. These washes start to build a landscape, a road map of lights and darks and of movement. They give direction  and are in no way indicative of the colour that will be applies over them.

Once this has been achieved  I spend a great deal of time looking at it from all angles. I place them upside down, sideways, and mix them up. Often times a triptych will become a diptych or a single canvas.

Detail of Underpainting

Triptych

40" x 78" 

I search for the movement that suggests the figure that should be there. Once this has been established I can start painting.

So really, my underpainting a series of underpaintings.

Between the Devil and the deep blue sea.

So when I enter my studio I am always caught between the Devil and the deep blue sea, but in a good way.

I believe when most people feel this way it is because they are caught between to difficult choices, where either outcome is likely to cause them some form of suffering. Not so for me. I am caught between finishing a painting, working on any of several paintings in progress, finishing collages, or starting the under painting on several new canvases. All choices will lead to satisfaction and happiness, but "Oh no! Which do I choose?"

Oh the quandary