Unspoken Conversation

I am often asked about where I get my subject matter from for my figurative work so I think I will write a bit about that.

I work from a growing collection of photos but I also work with live models - both draped and undraped (that’s nude in everyday parlance). Painting from a live model is challenging. The model is living, breathing, multi-dimensional and kinetic. This forces me to work quicker than I normally would to capture proportions, shapes and light. The model also brings their sense of self and personality into the room. Some models are incredibly generous with their presence and this often leads to better work on my part. I think it is because their generosity opens a venue for unspoken conversation between artist and subject.

In order to make the best use of my time with a model, I ensure that the painting surface is fully prepped beforehand with layers of gesso and a fully dry neutral coloured base coat. While the model is settling in, I mix my paints. I limit my palette to about 5 colours, including white, to keep things simpler and more harmonious. Once the model is in a pose, I rough in the form with a thinned neutral (usually burnt umber). Then I start applying shapes of values - the darkest darks and the lightest lights, slowly working towards finding the mid-range values.

The photo on the left below shows where I got to during the model session (it was about 2.5 hours duration). I completed the painting in my studio afterwards. The photo on the right is the finished product.

‘Brenda’, oil on board, 14” x 21” SOLD.