Category: Behind the Scenes

Process notes, material experiments, and glimpses into how my artwork and products come to life.

Setting the tone: More than 50 Shades

Behind the Scenes

This week was a difficult week at work as well as with family. Events made me think of mortality and the intended and unintended impressions we might leave on people around us.

Some impressions might linger for decades while others might change more immediately according to the amount of light or shade in our behaviour that is applied.

I noticed how this insight is conveyed with a study of tonal impressions. It changes depending on how much white or black paint is added. There are therefore more than fifty shades of grey as well as any colour possibly

Still life study in tones of black white and grey. Includes dry brushing.
Amazed by different reds and tones from crimsons
Tides of crimson tones

Starting Nano Neon Abstract Paintings

Behind the Scenes

I made a start on a new collection this week. It combines some graphic figures and abstract work. They are on a background of white and have neon and gold iridescence for a fantastical piece that has everyday significance.

Tiny neon paintings for shelf styling in home office decor staging. Mixed media on board.

I love how the light affects neon colours. They are great for bringing cheer and playfulness into my art. They’ll look amazing in a beach house or sunny climate. I’m halfway through finishing these, and when they are ready, they’ll be in the shop soon.

Neon Abstract from a life drawing in charcoal during speed poses. It is becoming a piece related to body dis-morphia

Using vintage Emerald Green Swarovski Crystals

Behind the Scenes

This week, my post will speak for itself. It is a movie. You can hear me thinking and stumbling on not being able to say Swarovski Crystals. In this video, you will see that I used emerald green Swarovski Crystals for this emerald green and copper checkerboard painting. I like to create paintings like this, so they are ready to prop on a bookshelf without buying a frame. The dried lavender makes the painting smell wonderful.

The link to the story video is here

Below is the after with a view of the painted potion on the shelf of my home office.


We all need something uplifting and sweet-smelling and natural on our bookshelves, don’t we?