When working on a painting in acrylic or oils, I often start with a colored ground. I find it much easier to work on then a white canvas. I also enjoy the energy created by the interaction between the colors in the background and the newly applied brushstrokes. At times I add areas of the base color back onto the painting. I use a direct method of painting, but sometimes there are areas which are glazed in the final stages. I draw with paint directly onto the canvas, applying colors without an under-painting.
Red Royalty, Acrylic on Canvas, 2014, 24x36 inches
This landscape was painted on a red ground.
Tutu Bay View - Acrylic on Canvas - 24x36 inches - 2016
This was actually the first of the Caribbean Colour Carnival Dancer Series. Unlike Red Royalty which was based on photos I had taken of one particular dancer and done later. This painting was a compilation of photos I had taken of two different dancers. I blended not only their faces, but also their costumes.
Caribbean Queen - Too Blue for You, Acrylic, 24x36 inches, 2013