Notes on paintings:
I always start with photographic studies, I am fascinated by the human form, one of the most complex forms in nature, there are endless possibilities, standing, moving, reclining, kneeling, seen from the back, side and many angles making so many very unique and sensuous shapes. Even small changes in the shape of a hand or a position of a leg can make a difference.My aim is to capture the figure where there is a balance of form and composition. It is also true that the figure can look quite awkward more often than not so a large number of studies are required. Studies are carefully considered, analyzed and the model is re posed in many cases. The lighting is controlled as this is how the eye perceives the form. The subtle changes are important as the figure will also express something emotive, majestic or mysterious. I love colour and this is the basis of my painting backgrounds where I break with the tradition of painting the model "in an environmental setting". The photo studies are always isolated on a plain background to avoid any distraction. The background is added to the painting itself, the colours inspired by nature.I have used various colours and images of flowers to a large extent in my earlier works making a colour BG plan first, transferring it to canvas and modifying the design with oil paint exploring the colour combinations with each new work. Basicly Hard edge colour combinations with some soft variations. In some ways it is an involved process similar to an etching or sculpture process where there are many steps taken. I've refined the technique again by taking out the colour plan for the background out working the BG plan on the canvas itself. With each new work something fresh is created and refined and something else is learnt..