I’ve decided to use a previous study as the compositional basis for the first painting of the series.
The first stage of my painting process typically involves toning the ground and then applying some sort of texture or pattern as an underpainting. I’m working with oil paint and I’m thinning the paint with a medium to increase the paint’s transparency and fluidity. (More later about the use of painting mediums)
The next step for me is to lay in a grid pattern with a cooler color which is more similar in color to what I’m shooting for with the finished surface of the painting. The contrast between the initial wash and the the grid lines should produce some interesting and unexpected varieties to the finished surface.
I’m not that worried about the drips and inconsistencies of the lines. In fact, I’m wanting some variety within the imposed structure of the grid.
I want this underpainting to be visible through the successive layers of paint. Therefore, I stop here and let it dry.
