Classically Still (Life)

These works represent some of my still life works carried out from about 2017.  About half of the displayed paintings were completed during my time studying Classical Realism in Florence, Italy.  All have been done ‘from nature’ that is, without photographic reference but under close and intense observation of a set-up. Several objectives have been considered. First, I ask the question ‘what is the reason for this painting?’ Intent determines the overall feel of the painting and the subsequent choice and placement of items within each setting.  Is the design of the composition calm, active, ordered, chaotic, solid or weightless; What silhouette is formed by the objects; how does the set up serve to hold or guide the viewer’s gaze; are there nuances of light and air in the 3D space; what about the hierarchy of focus. The latter can be achieved towards the end of the painting process when additional attention is paid to adjusting contrasts, edges, highly finished details and accents.