Harbour Reflections Painting

Large oil on canvas. This painting was selected for the Royal society of marine artists exhibition in 2012 at the Mall galleries, London. It has not been available to buy until now. The painting depicts a blue boat moored in the harbour. My intention when painting this was to explore the abstract patterns and morphing shapes in the water, while creating a relaxing, tranquil atmosphere. FRAME This oil painting is in a traditional handmade gesso covered wood frame, finished in hague blue colour with a gold leaf edge to compliment the painting. As an artist I was constantly disappointed with the way modern made frames would look with my work so I began to explore old techniques and recipes. Frames are constructed from top quality hardwood using best quality glue with strengthened corner joints. Once sanded, the frames are finished following a process which pre-dates the renaissance and is thought to have originated in ancient Egypt. The frame receives on average eight coats of gesso (natural hide glue mixed with chalk) and is allowed to dry. It is then sanded and polished. Several Coats of Clay bole are then brushed on and also polished. Gold leaf is then applied. A soft sable brush is used to wet the clay with a mixture of water, hide glue and alcohol which must then be allowed to dry. Burnishing the gold leaf produces the brilliant shine characteristic of water gilding. It must be carried out at the right moment, not too wet, not too dry using the semi-precious stone agate. Finally the frame is then given a protective coating of bees wax producing a unique soft velvety finish.