About the artwork, and my process

I paint using traditional oils using only linseed oil as a medium. I paint using the traditional alla-prima method, and I paint without using any solvents. I prefer to paint solvent free as it is better for health and better for the environment, since neither oil paint or linseed oil release any smells or fumes. The drying time is long but I prefer to work by this time-tested method and find the health benefits outweigh the wait time.

I prepare my own panels, first applying a size and then 3 coats of gesso or oil ground. I like to work on a relatively smooth surface with just a small amount of ‘tooth’ for the paint to grip to, and find that I achieve this best by preparing my own surface.

I usually complete the bulk of a painting wet-on-wet. Then, I like to ‘live’ with the painting for a week or so, so that I can tweak details until I am happy that the painting is complete. Typically my paintings take about another week or so after completion until they are touch dry.

Once the painting is dry, I apply a final layer of thinned linseed oil or galkyd into the surface using lint free, unbleached cheesecloth. Particular oil colors can dull more than others once they are dried as the oil content sinks below the surface. This final application revives those colors.

Finally, I either varnish, or lately I have been moving towards using a cold wax medium, made from beeswax, as I find I can can better control the outcome this way, and I prefer the contemporary finish. Both methods offer a protective and even, semi-matt sheen.

This whole process can take at least 4-5 weeks before the work can be offered for sale. 

Lately I have been offering the work ready to hang where possible. I find that collectors appreciate not having to frame the work themselves. However I do offer small, affordable unframed pieces as well from time to time.