Fenwicks and Tokyon Tea
60x80x4cm
Framed size 62x82x6.8cm
This painting is part of a new series of still life created for my solo show " A Sense of Self"
Objects preserve a wealth of significant emotion and connection, serving as physical embodiments of identity. Their narratives project a sense of self while sharing stories of lives lived in other places and times. They hold a physical representation of experience, speaking of familial ties and the story of who we were, who we are, and where we have been.
My parents bought me the blue and white teapot in Fenwicks, a department store in Newcastle upon Tyne. My Mum was a Geordie and despite Bainbridges being her favourite store she loved Fenwick's kitchen department. Shopping in Newcastle was a family ritual, which David was initiated into early in our relationship.
My parents brought the teapot in their suitcase to Bermuda when I was living there and it is one of our well-travelled possessions.
Ella bought the two Japanese tea cups in Tokyo. She was chosen to be a world school delegate in 2018. She spent 2 weeks at a conference with kids from 22 other countries near Tokyo. The cups were part of her gift for us.
Fenwicks and Tokyo Tea
Frame
Framed in a custom, hand-produced, meranti (hardwood) float frame for a contemporary aesthetic which complements any interior.
The frame is hand-constructed, sanded and waxed in the studio. A wire is attached to the rear of the panel with brass d rings and is ready to hang
Please note the framing images are for reference only so you know what to expect.
Panel
I paint on custom hand-constructed ply panels, known as a cradled panel, I prefer a wood surface to canvas. I can paint on canvas for commissions if you prefer.
Construction : 3mm ply surface plus 42 x 19mm 1.2m DAR Pine for edges
The panel is gessoed with 3 coats of white acrylic paint to seal and create an even painting surface
Finish
Acrylic paint is notorious for drying to a flat dull surface despite being super shiny during application. I apply 3 coats of gloss acrylic medium with 24 hours between coats.
The gloss medium enhances the colour, texture and layers.
Beeswax is applied with a cloth for a soft satin finish. The wax is stable even in a Queensland climate.
Please note my paintings generally have a smooth profile without impasto technique.