Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Blooming Agave

Blooming Agave, 12 x 6 (18 x 12 matted and framed)
Oil on paper, L. Daniel © 2012
Available at the Davis Gallery
"Works on Paper" Show


Blooming cactus is a common and often dramatic sight in the desert. The sheer height of this bloom was astounding. This piece is included in the upcoming "Works on Paper" group show at the Davis Gallery. My pieces in the exhibit are all painted with oil pigments on a card stock called "carton board". I chose this paper for its warm color and absorbant surface. It was actually quite perfect for depicting the soft dusty tones of the desert. (See all show pieces on my website.)



A word about working on this carton board paper... 
The carton board is "resin-sized" which is a process that preps the paper surface to receive paint. It is still very absorbent and has a bit of a scratchy quality. I could have used clear gesso to seal it more thoroughly, but I actually liked the way the paint absorbed into the paper. More paint was required for each stroke and it was very satisfying to apply. My good friend, Robin Cheers, turned me on to it and I like it a lot. Thanks Robin!! Carton board is available at Guerrilla Painter.


"Works on Paper" Summer Group Show
Davis Gallery - 837 W. 12th Street, Austin, TX
June 30 - July 31, Reception June 30, 7-9 pm

1 comment:

Karen F. Rose said...

Can feel the warmth of the desert in your Blooming Agave.
Thanks for sharing the information about the carton board paper. Does the paper have a tooth to it?
Have never seen an agave plant but wonder if it is the same plant that is used as a low glycemic sweetener?