Working on the dresses was initially a matter that caused me a little worry, but I quickly found myself enjoying creating folds and shadows in the fabric that makes up the first drapery in the painting. I want clothing that is reminiscent of, but not styled in the same way as those romantic creations made by the Pre-Raphaelite painters in their gorgeous paintings of women. When the first draft of this dress is complete in Raw Umber, I will add colour, shadows and highlights to make the fabric really work properly. Pre-Raph connoisseurs may appreciate that I did this work in wet white, meaning that I first added Foundation white to the surface, then painted into it with the brown. It worked quite well, and I’ll continue to experiment with the technique until I can perfect it.
There’s an interesting exhibit at La Luz de Jesus Gallery in Silverlake, Los Angeles, where you can see “The Lowbrow Tarot”, a collection of card designs entirely by lowbrow oil painters. Lowbrow is derived from cartoons and illustration, tends towards anime and a gothic sensibility, while using traditional technique to achieve a very detailed and craftsmanlike picture, often in oil paint, sometimes in acrylics, and more unusually in mixed media. I want to visit the show this weekend before it closes at the end of the month (October 31st).
Masterful treatment of the delicate folds in tulle fabric bodices, Michael. Take note, Pre-Raphaelite collectors, there’s a new kid on the block! Also, I see Elizabeth’s smile!