To LEAF Or Not To LEAF

...that is the Question.  I have longed to use gilt for quite awhile in my paintings,  probably after studying Klimt's work.  Before I even began on this picture, I planned to gold leaf the halo parts. 

The outer circle was formed by adding a semi-dry string of Tacky Glue onto which I carefully pressed pieces of the delicate leaf.  I had to exercise extreme self control while working with this near-weightless material;  the slightest exhaling just from normal breathing propels the stuff like you would not believe. 

Never having done this before, I was somewhat nervous about this 'new' to me procedure; yet fascinated at the same time.  This one of Jesus is titled:  "I Will Never Leave You".  Another icon I have, "Heavenly Peace" of baby Jesus & mother Mary,  is getting a similar treatment; both of which I will show in a later post once finished.

ARRANGING those PAINTINGs

It's one thing to buy a painting you like; and quite another to know how to integrate works of art into your personal space otherwise known as your home.   Personal home decorating is something we all do; and there are endless ways to attractively display your collection as opposed to simply hanging it over the couch.

A current decorator trend:
Stack-leaning against the wall
on a high shelf or mantle with
 coordinating or enhancing 3D
accessories [props] as
pictured here.

Conventionally hung on wall
in a grouping with similar
subject matter or colors is
undeniably a successful choice.

Finally, letting your imagination run
wild  together with your favorite 3D
 objects allows the art to
be a focal point of the room, which
can be such fun.

p.s. photos taken in my daughters' 

homes; decorating credits go to them.