Tony van Hasselt: Creative Realism In Watercolor (DVD)

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.

PALETTE KNIFE PAINTING

Briefly used in a couple of my first works, I have recently rediscovered working with the palette knife. The interesting effect it produced could not have been gotten with a brush. The technique depends on the quality and size of the knife used.

I must say it doesn't help my carpal tunnel any. After applying paint like this for a half hour or more, my hand & wrist are 'happy' for me to take a break.
I'm about to order a smaller size spade-shaped one for better control of smaller details.
Oh-the fun of ordering art supplies!!--[another subject]

Cosmic Bride

Cosmic  Bride   ~  Oils

One of those works that almost fall in place by itself...began with a drawing of my favorite tree. Then a woman's face here, another larger face there, some lace, some nebulous cosmic atmosphere... next thing I knew, it was a surreal scene with a bridal effect.

The emotion that reverberates from it is almost unearthly quiet, of a still moonlit night combined with M'lady's eerie sadness.
The redness of the rose is reinforced by that of her lips. Her veil forms the pattern of the stellar backdrop, while she is clothed in mystery.

This painting is for sale here.