Saturday, April 27, 2013

Tissue Paper


I've returned to the tissue paper theme. I'm fascinated by the the play of light on these translucent, colorful papers. Like "Purple Tissue" painted earlier this year, I decided to construct the composition by taping the pieces to my studio wall. The paintings have a trompe l'oeil effect, but with a painterly quality. I don't want viewers to forget they are looking at paintings.




























The bright spot of red contrasts with the subdued colors in the paper bag and grey wall. Cast shadows are an important part of the composition. They add dimension and interest. The red shadow created from the light passing through the tissue is what makes the paper "read" as translucent rather than opaque.

"Red Tissue, Bag & String", 24"x 18", oil on board





















I like this super bright color combination. The tissues light up the wall with their intense colors. They almost seem to float. I wanted to capture that light airy feeling. The origami crane echoes the idea. Again, shadows are important. The crane's cast shadow is a dominant design element.

"Taking Flight", 18"x 24", oil on board, Sold

Monday, April 22, 2013

Memories of Italy


























The espresso cup is a souvenir from last October's trip to Italy. The focal point is the espresso and biscotti. Their warm hues contrast with the cool, monochromatic blues in the rest of the painting.

"Memories of Italy", 12"x 9", oil on linen, Sold