Michael Wood
Leighton Buzzard, United Kingdom
My work can be described as imaginative figurative. I use acrylic paints and in the main work on stretched canvas primed with gesso. My usual working method is: draw an outline of the picture using a thin neutral grey; give the whole canvas a wash of the background colour; add form to the outline e.g. paint in areas of shadow; next I mix varying amounts of gloss heavy gel medium with bold colours straight from the tubes. I find the gel gives the colours and eventually the painting a dynamic quality; finally, back to a thinner application of paint to add the detail. Once the painting is completely dry I give it a coat of gloss (removable) varnish. I have found acrylic paints and mediums provide all the vividness, depth of colour and body of oils, but with the added attraction of quick drying. There is a narrative quality in my work and to maintain the continuity of the piece I need to work quickly, or the thread of inspiration is lost, so acrylic paint is ideal for me.
Works Exhibited
- The Williamson Art Gallery & Museum, 2004:
- Cat No 166: "Opus 9" 80 x 60cms
- Cat No 167: "Café" 72 x 58cms