Backstory

The Space Between | 2021

These paintings, one of my husband and the other a self-portrait, were the last two I painted. I have now retired my paintbrushes. They were an attempt to visualize the space between thoughts.

Shaun:
It fascinates me how the mind works, particularly when it comes to your beloved. It is interesting to observe somebody lost in thought, and even more so to witness the instant just before the thought manifests itself. What is truly intriguing, however, is the transition between the inward and outward focus - the moment when an idea shifts from being internal to being external. Only then am I invited into the process to get a glimpse into his inner world and fully participate. 

Renzo:
My mind is an ever-present arena of constantly shifting emotions, thoughts, and ideas, all of which vie for attention and control, resulting in an enduring state of exhaustion. I am left to ponder which aspect to focus on and how best to articulate it, and during that process, another battle ensues. Is it possible to find a moment of tranquillity amidst such chaos - a stillness of mind that is free from the perpetual tumult? Does it exist in that very fleeting moment of nothingness before one thought becomes another? Can I stay there just a little bit longer?

Technique

SURFACE:
Aluminium Panel; after researching the various aluminium panels on the market I settled on a 3mm panel with an anodized surface.
www.jacksonsart.com

MEDIUM:
Old Holland Oil Paints
www.oldholland.com
Beeswax Paste
Refined Linseed Stand Oil
www.michaelharding.co.uk
Gamsol Mineral Spirits
gamblincolors.com
Artists’ Satin Varnish
www.winsornewton.com

BRUSHES:
Rosemary & Co Handmade Brushes
www.rosemaryandco.com

TECHNIQUE:
Each painting was created using the same techniques. First, I prepared the aluminum panels by applying three layers of gesso and lightly sanding between each layer. Once I was satisfied with the surface, I sketched a detailed drawing using a yellow watercolour pencil and created hues by adding water with a brush. Then I used the grisaille technique, which involved creating a gray tone underpainting. In this layer, I also added texture, particularly in the background, using a beeswax paste. After this layer was dry, I used glazing techniques to add tones of colour. I built up multiple layers of glaze to achieve the desired effect.

Artists Collection