Behind the Canvas
A glimpse into the creative process, from initial inspiration to finished artwork.
The Creative Journey
Concept & Inspiration
Every piece begins with an idea, whether sparked by a location, a feeling, or a story that demands to be told. I keep sketchbooks filled with preliminary drawings and color studies.
Medium Selection
Based on the subject and the mood I want to convey, I choose the most appropriate medium. Sometimes the subject dictates the choice; other times, experimentation leads the way.
Preliminary Studies
Before committing to a final piece, I often create smaller studies to work out composition, color harmony, and technical challenges.
Execution
The actual painting process varies by medium - from the slow, contemplative building of oil layers to the spontaneous flow of watercolors. This is where the magic happens.
Refinement
Once the main work is complete, I step back and evaluate. Sometimes a piece needs subtle adjustments; other times, it needs to rest before I can see what it requires.
Watch the Process
Time-lapse videos of paintings coming to life
Tools of the Trade
The materials I trust to bring my vision to life
Oil Painting
- Old Holland and Michael Harding oil paints
- Belgian linen canvas, hand-stretched
- Natural bristle and synthetic brushes
- Cold-pressed linseed oil medium
Watercolor
- Daniel Smith and Winsor & Newton watercolors
- Arches and Saunders Waterford papers
- Kolinsky sable and squirrel mop brushes
- Gum arabic and ox gall medium
Acrylic
- Golden and Liquitex heavy body acrylics
- Stretched cotton canvas
- Palette knives and synthetic brushes
- Gel mediums and retarders
The Studio
Where the magic happens