Monday, October 5, 2009

Libby - Accepted!

I heard from my client this weekend and she loves the painting of Libby - whew! I have it propped up in my studio where I can see it and I've decided that I like it. That's kind of scary to me as when I like a painting of my own, many times others don't like it at all!

This time it's worked out though and both my client and I like the painting!

Now, on to the glassless preparation. I've used workable fixative between the layers of the painting as I painted it where Jana uses PVA between layers. I'll use a couple of layers of the PVA as a barrier between the painting and the final finish and that will probably require touching up after each spray before the final PVA layer. After the final barrier layer is completely dry, I'll spray with Golden's UV protectant acrylic varnish. It's time consuming to mix the spray materials, spray, wait for it to dry, touch up any "melted" pastel, spray again, touch up again etc. until the pastel has enough build up to look as it's intended. At that time the final varnish coat can be applied.

It's really not as complicated as it sounds but just takes time to get right. The end result is worth it though and my customer will be able to ship the painting to its destination without the danger of the pastel being smudged or damaged. Also, there will be no glass to break in transit! The colors remain brilliant and the painting should be preserved for many, many years to come!

5 comments:

Jeanette Jobson said...

This is a lovely piece of a delicate looking dog.

Its always a bit 'heart in mouth' waiting to hear if someone likes a piece isn't it? Oh the stress... :)

But what's not to like with this one?

The glassless treatment sounds interesting. I haven't tried that, but may do so in future. I never sell framed pieces, unless they are local. Its just too difficult to ship glass, but this eliminates that. Great stuff.

twincedar said...

Glad your customer like it. I know that was a relief!

Sue Clinker said...

I've never heard of this method before Jan so hope you will post stages?
I've only ever used finishing fixative and didn't know you could buy workable ones until recently. I think a trip to my local art store is beckoning!
and congrats on another happy client. Its a lovely portrait so no wonder you both like it!

Jan said...

Thank you Jeanette, Lori and Sue. I just posted instructions for glassless framing so hope you will experiment also. Let me know how it works out!

Teresa said...

Congrats on a Successful Commission!