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Still Life, 5' x 5' oil on canvas, 1996
Like some artists in the 17th and 18th century,
we are somewhat of "method" painters.
We divide the various stages of the painting process
by separating the tasks and executing them in sequence.
Our techniques are a combination of the Flemish and Venetian Styles.
Flemish ala prima is described as
"direct" or "wet on wet".
We begin with a light painting ground
and gently outline the subject along with
the main light and dark values.
Those areas are then applied with
full force using transparent colors
or glazes to create luminosity.
We continue with the Venetian
or "indirect" style by
applying several relatively thin,
smooth film layers of paint.
At first this is done with a minimal amount of pigment
thinned with turpentine and then gradually the order is reversed.
This is refered to the "fat over lean" technique.
Occasionally, We add an increasing amount of Damar varnish
for flexibility and longevity.
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