Vanity Paintings

This series is inspired by a couple of things. The first is this little round mirror that sits next to the clutter of cosmetics on my vanity. The second is the word "vanity" and its various definitions. 

I'm always a little embarrassed by the number of products I buy to enhance my appearance. Considering the size of the cosmetics industry, I guess I'm not alone in my search for the perfect color. The circular mirror is almost like a target framing the focal point in the composition. I like to paint reflections, but I think this is the first time I've incorporated a mirror in a still life. The painting with the faded rose is a nod to the "vanitas" theme of 17th-century Dutch paintings.
                                                                                                                                                                                   

"Vanity — Nail Polish", 8"x 8", oil on linen, Sold

"Vanity — Lipstick", 8"x 8", oil on linen, Sold

"Vanity — Faded Rose", 8"x 8", oil on linen, Sold

Smoked Ciscoes

It has been a few years since I've painted smoked fish. I'm fascinated by their iridescent bronze finish. The white butcher paper reflects the warm tones of the fish. 

"Smoked Ciscoes", 11"x 14", oil on linen, Sold

Bag of Donuts

This painting is an exploration of the colors of white. The range of values in the bag were limited which meant paying close attention to all the warm and cool color changes in the folds. I used warm colors to create the illusion of light passing through the bag. The cake of the donuts made some nice warm spots, too. I only ate one donut during the painting process. It was delicious.

"Bag of Donuts" 10" x 20", oil on board, Sold