9x12 oil on wood |
Recently I decided to try Gamblin's Traditional Gesso. I read that is was made with gypsum, rabbit skin glue, marble dust, titanium dioxide and water, it claimed to make a luminous surface. Let me tell you, IT DOES! I love it. The study above was done on a birch, coated in 4 thin layers. You can't tell by this photo but the sky glows. (I will try to retake the photo tomorrow.) This gesso dries much more slowly but is worth the wait. One thing to remember you must use it on a rigid surface, not stretched canvas or linen.
Maybe someday I will cook up my own on the stove like I learned to do long ago at school. Right now I don't see that in my future and with this stuff I don't feel I have to!
Does anyone else have a favorite gesso they would care to share?
9 comments:
This kind of scene is perfect for the glowing effect! The color transitions at the tops of the trees are just beautiful.
Not to be overly sentimental, but I'd love to see your 1st study or painting from the new studio. If this is the one, brava!
Hi Loriann, did you put the gesso on very thickly and why did you paint four layers instead of just two? were you wanting to create some texture as I can see thick texture when I click on your image? Did you glaze on top of the gesso? lots of questions!! it does glow so well.
thanks Donna!
Hi Sam!
So far I am just finishing paintings for upcoming shows. I will post a brand new one when it surfaces. Thanks for taking an interest!
Hi Carolyn,
Yes I did put 3 thin layers of gesso and afterwards I decided to use a palette knife to make a textured last layer.The nooks and crannies held the layers of glaze differently. Thanks for your interest. I hope this helps.
look at that light!
One more question--where do you paint outside? I've renewed my efforts to get to the woods. It feels so good to be there.
Hi Liz and thank you for your comments. I paint in a few favorite locations. Early mornings I am at Lake Needwood, the river or the reservoir. In the evenings I usually go to my field next door or Lake Needwood overlook.
For walking I would recommend all of those except the reservoir. I will have to check by your blog!
Hi Loriann,
I love the look of the trad gesso on board! I may have to try that soon. But even more, I love the look of your gorgeous new studio! Congratulations!
Thanks Lisa!
I can go so far as to say it changes the way I think and work. Just to have so much space above my head and to completely separate (but very close) to my home is awesome! Thanks for dropping by to visit!
Post a Comment