May 2009

"Ocean Elixir "
20 " x 20 " (51 x 51 cm)
acrylic and gold leaf on panel

available

click here for purchase information

To create this effect, gold leaf is first applied to a panel. Several layers of acrylic paint are applied over the leaf, but each paint layer is carefully controlled to keep some of the gold showing through. To keep the paint transparent I used it as a glaze by adding a generous amount of medium to the colors. I also applied the paint in washes like watercolor over acrylic paste that was put on in a few areas.

April 2009

"Autumn Horizon "
20 " x 16 " (51 x 41 cm)
acrylic on panel

not available for purchase

Each step of this painting is demonstrated in my new DVD, due for release fall 2009. In this painting I combine watercolor and oil effects by using only acrylic. First a ground is applied to create an absorbent surface. Washes of acrylic are applied in several layers to create a soft, blended watercolor effect. This surface is then sealed with a gloss coat and acrylics are applied using gels to increase refraction and to simulate an oil paint look. The painting is finished with a satin varnish to even the surface sheen.

March 2009

"Ascension "
40" x 30" (102 x 76 cm)
acrylic and gold leaf on panel
available
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Continuing my series with acrylic paint on gold leaf, this painting presents three central diamonds that emerge from an imaginary landscape of ocean and sky. My technique of applying acrylic on gold leaf is illustrated in my book, Acrylic Revolution. Here paint is applied in transparent layers to allow the gold to show through, much like a watercolorist keeps the white of the paper showing through multiple layers of watercolor.

February 2009

"Token of the Covenant "
40" x 30" (102 x 76 cm)
acrylic and gold leaf on panel
sold

The gold leaf surface I first applied on this painting creates an illumination that inspires me to play with the paint in a different way. I enjoy the challenge to contrast, parallel and dialogue with the gold leaf using painterly techniques. Techniques include glazing, dry brushing, and applying paint with rags and other unusual tools. All these techniques are included in my book, Acrylic Revolution, North Light Books.

January 2009

"The Second Day "
40" x 30" (102 x 76 cm)
acrylic and gold leaf on panel
available
click here for purchase information

I was inspired recently, reading the beginning of Genesis, the day before the Earth was formed, where waters were split into two parts – the Upper and Lower Waters, on the Second Day of Creation. Here paint moves in ripples in both directions, upwards and down from a “black-hole” horizontal strip, among a golden universal space. The gold leaf is applied on a rigid wood panel, then sealed to allow paint to be applied on top. Acrylic paint is then applied in several layers to create this effect.