Russian heat wave - Getting the knack of it with Chinese paper...

This is my last experiment with Chinese paper pasted on canvas before proceeding with a new series using this technique...

I take the opportunity with these types of experiment to indulge in "off the wall" subject matters. In this case, I couldn't resist tackling these Russian activists from Ukraine. However, my intent with this new technique is to get back to the deconstruction of images, a pursuit I started a few years ago...

Note: I particularly like the "torn to shreds" look that is perfectly integrated with the paint (one with the paint)...

Lip my stocking! Another experimental run with Chinese paper...

I completed my last painting today...

...anxious to experiment with Chinese paper once again. This new technique will require spontaneous brush strokes... and lately, I must admit that I've been rubbing paint with a total disregard for brush strokes! At any rate, I like to keep myself in danger!

Note: this line comes a Bill Murray movie entitled "Lost in translation"... I couldn't resist!

Still in the pursuit of an optimal technique for Chinese paper!

Starting the beginning of this week, I intensified my exploration of new techniques with Chinese paper on raw canvas...

I seem to be zeroing on an alla prima technique (at least for the first few passes) using Chinese paper on raw cotton. This is my third attempt, the second one having resulted in a half failure (I started with a horse and ended up with a Camel)!

Back to some form of painting!

After a month of heavy duty work around the house, I decided that it was time to get back to painting. I dug up my last incomplete experiment and used it as a platform to learn a little more about acrylics on Chinese paper pasted on cotton canvas...

Although I had attempted something of the sort 6 years ago, the technique seems to make more sense now in view of my recent collages (canvas over canvas). I like the fresco style textures on the fly...

Note: Although this is merely an experimental work, the title:  "A star is born" seems totally appropriate ;-)

Group exhibition in my hometown...

In response to the "Music, dance and cinema" theme of this group exhibition, I submitted this painting dating back a few years...

It's always interesting to re-look at one's previous works with a new objectivity stemming from the passage of time...

Hard day's work!

I spent the greater part of last few week working outdoors (landscaping) after the installation of a SPA...

Looks like we're starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel!

Note to self: "What am I gonna do next in terms of my art? This question remains unanswered for now!"

Renovations are making a dent on my painting time!

I've had very little time to paint lately, due to a major house renovation project. Nonetheless, I found the time to take a piece of loose raw cotton (no gesso) and paste Chinese paper on it to see the impact of this new surface on paint application and textural effects...

This technique, which is an offshoot of my previous collage approach, definitely has potential. In actuality, I was investigating the possibility of an additional painting for my US flag series. Looks like my recent live model drawing classes may very well have an influence on my future art! Based on my recent exploratory work though, deconstruction of the image (by whatever means) will remain a prime consideration.

Note to self: "After 5-6 years of exploratory work, I feel the need to bring a little more focus into my art. Combining the best elements of my best recent works could contribute to this."