This detail is from the first completed painting in the new Part ll project which shows both versions of malachite. Impasto paint was floated onto the surface of the jar in the focal areas. Across the table is a golden cloth which is used as a perfect foil for the bluish green of the jar setting it off nicely. According to Francois Delamare and … [Read more...] about One Down, Many to Go
Pigments: Historical and Modern
There is a distinct difference between modern day pigments and the natural pigments used prior to the middle of the 1700s. In the past, artists had apprentices who ground the colors for them throughout the oil painting sessions. Because they were made by hand, the pigments retained a natural grittiness and consistency with larger particle size. Today's oil paint manufacturers make synthetic colors in huge vats where the end result is exceptional smoothness. Prior to the middle of the 1700, natural pigments came from dirt, minerals, and even plants.
Rublev and Zecchi Walked into a Bar….
Rublev malachite, from Natural Pigments, is shown on the left. Zecchi malachite scuro (dark), from Zecchi's Art Supply in Florence, Italy is on the right. Both dry pigments are ground in linseed oil. I have been hoarding the Zecchi color since I bought it in Florence in 2003. It is darker and richer than most other products and was invaluable in … [Read more...] about Rublev and Zecchi Walked into a Bar….
Lessons from the Pharaoh’s Tomb, Part Two
Announcing Lessons from the Pharaoh's Tomb, Part Two Galerie Gabrie, Pasadena, in March 2011. More intriguing myths, Gods, Goddesses, symbols, tombs, temples and stories from Ancient Egypt featuring pigments and new paintings. With only a few exceptions, all paintings in this new series will be created using pigments used by Egyptian … [Read more...] about Lessons from the Pharaoh’s Tomb, Part Two
The Pharaoh Returns
Those of you who have traveled to Egypt or studied the culture perhaps experience a similar passion. My curiosity is insatiable since traveling down the River Nile and becoming familiar with this amazing vast span of history. One could research this historical period, say, 3500 BCE to Cleopatra's era at 35 BCE for a lifetime and still not … [Read more...] about The Pharaoh Returns
Mad Scientist Who Never Sleeps
In many ways, we are all students of a certain endeavor at some time or another. My mad scientist/experiment-or/student self never sleeps. Come to my studio and most days you will find a pot of stand oil/varnish medium bubbling away on the hot plate. Alternatively, perhaps a small batch of Red Iron Oxide or Egyptian Blue Frit will be lingering on … [Read more...] about Mad Scientist Who Never Sleeps
Doorman’s Record Tulipa
Cupid's Arrow 11x10 Oil on Linen Margret E. Short copyright 2010 CM Russell Museum Masters in Miniature 2010 July 29 through September 11 Great Falls, Montana Being the hopeless and helpless mad scientist, I just can't help playing around with colors. Over the past while, RED has been on my palette and has been manipulated and pushed like … [Read more...] about Doorman’s Record Tulipa