Thirty in Thirty, 2014: Alchemy

By Michaela | Published January 11, 2014

Alchemy, 2014 - copyright michaela harlow - michaelaharlow.comAlchemy, 2014 – Michaela Harlow – 24″ x 24″, oil on panel

Another piece in an ongoing series —includes ‘Stirred’ and ‘Ripple Effect’— this one recalls the golden light I saw out on the frozen river, late last Sunday afternoon.

Every once in awhile, I make a painting that I’m not sure I can part with. That happened today. Alchemy.

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2 Comments

  1. Jen January 12, 2014 at 1:26 pm #

    Wow. I can see why you wouldn’t want to part with this one. It’s magical with those watery ripples that look like wood grain or two galaxies meeting.

  2. Michaela January 12, 2014 at 4:24 pm #

    You will be very interested to know that the ripples actually are enhanced by wood grain. After priming the plywood panel with gesso, I discovered that my sanding had revealed grain. I didn’t notice the subtle, natural texture until I put the panel up on my easel and ran my hand over the surface. When I discovered this happy accident, I decided to use it to my advantage in creating the ripple effect. That little coincidence made for a special bonding with the painting, and it only grew stronger as the work evolved over the course of a few days. I’m so glad you noticed! I shifted the grain to the direction I wanted the ripple flow, painted the piece and then highlighted the grain toward the end of the process.