China, Brass & Peaches - Final

This is a snapshot, so I can't vouch for total accuracy, but here is the finished piece. I ran it through a couple of filters to try and clean it up a bit.

I added final highlights and color notes, as well as a suggestion of the draped fabric behind the arrangement.

I'm glad I went with the square format. It is something I'm gravitating toward, even though it makes framing trickier (no standard sized, pre-manufactured frames). I'm getting more attracted to square arrangements, lately.

I have some more work in the pipeline, but it may take me a few days to get started (other obligations). One still life I'm hoping to enter in an upcoming competition, and another is a semi-commission of St. Anthony of Padua.

Comments

[e.]

B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!

What are the dimensions of the painting?

More importantly, how much?

[Tim J.]

Highly Esteemed Reader "e",

Why, thank you. This piece is another of these "semi-commissions" I keep talking about, so it is *initially* more or less reserved for the patron who suggested it. They will get first crack at purchasing it, and if for some reason it does not meet their expectations, it will go on the auction block.

This system allows me creative freedom, while still working in a loose "commission" type framework.

I must warn you, though, that my work now goes for - literally - hundreds of dollars.

[Paul S.]

I'll second e's comment. And I love those leaves. The relation between objects is quite peaceful to look at. It's been a delight to see the stages and progress of the painting.

"I ran it through a couple of filters to try and clean it up a bit."

?

[Tim J.]

Sorry... that is, I ran it through a couple of filters *in Photoshop* to try and clean it up a bit.

To the uninitiated, my original statement must have sounded like I ran it through the washing machine...

[ukok]

This is just beautiful. God truly uses you as a vessel to pour beauty into the world.

[Shmikey]

Tim, do you construct your own canvas stretchers? We made our own in art classes when I was majoring in art. I love your works, especially the masculine topical works you have. I can tell from the details, that these are truly from your gut. God Bless

[Tim J.]

I used to make my own stretchers, when I was doing very large work (4x6 feet, or so), but then I went to pre-stretched for convenience... until I switched to masonite panels!

A-HA! Yes, almost all my work is on wood panel, now. I like the stability of the material, as well as the fact that there is no fabric texture to take into consideration. Even with very small work, I can get a very smooth, detailed image.

I often make my own panels, cutting them from a 4'x8' panel, available at any home supply store. I then sand them and coat them with Gesso all over... front, back and sides. This helps to maintain the stability over time and minimize warping by creating a moisture barrier.

I experiment with different methods of applying the Gesso, using brushes and rollers... I see now that Gesso is available in a spray can, so I may try that.

I like using a roller, at present, because it creates a bit of "tooth" and texture, without the regular pattern of canvas that I find distracting.

One thing I haven't tried is painting on linen, so I am also curious to try that.

[Adam D]

Awesome! the painting turned out as beautifully as its initial stages promised. The introduction of the background fabric and its subtle treatment were very excellent calls.

Update the post when you get a sharper photo of it?