I never realized until I started living with John the great love affair painters have with their materials. They love squeezing paint out of the tube and on to the palette, They love mixing their colors, they have favourite colors and favourite makes of color. So that a color from one manufacturer can have quite different tonal qualities and mix very differently. J's latest painting uses a lot of primary cyan and it was fascinating to watch him go through all the different tubes of what is called the same color looking for the one that would mix to the color he wanted. These photos are of the under painting, the layers and layers he builds up until it's done. I love this stage. To me it's magic, this knowing of what needs to lie below the surface to make the work sing. It's a bit like looking baby skin; soft, translucent, vulnerable.
Lovely, and much truth. Great post, Liz.
ReplyDeleteThanks Walt, I am filled with wonder at how you painters paint.
DeleteWords cannot express the love a painter has for paint. These simple photographs are achingly beautiful. are they tempera or acrylic?
ReplyDeleteWonderful words Sarah, thanks, John was surprised and thrilled at what he saw in the photos. I just love this part of the process, and he is working with acrylics now.
DeleteThese details would be extraordinary as massive pieces on their own.
ReplyDeleteThey are filled with energy and emotion - and - have a sensitive calmness.
Very beautiful.
Thanks Ian, I agree totally and i passed your fine words along to John. He was amazed to see his work this way. More food for thought.
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