Background on the backgrounds

I showed you a close up of one of my current works in progress and talked about the diapering in the background. Now I have some examples to show you where I got this idea from...

Abelard and Heloise from a C14th manuscript of the Roman de la Rose

Another version of the Abelard and Heloise image, which I can't authenticate.

The story of Abelard and Heloise is part of the inspiration for my paintings, although I didn't acknowledge that to myself at first. I have been fascinated by their story for a long time and I suppose that subconsciously it just wanted to be expressed. The more I read and learn about the letters that passed between these twelfth century lovers and their evolving philosophy, the more I want to include their ideas my work...

But for now I am just focusing on those beautiful backgrounds.

Patterned Backgrounds

I have been wrestling with this series of paintings for too long now.

Time they were done and shown.

The backgrounds in them are based on the beautiful diapered backdrops seen in medieval manuscripts. They are slow to paint, meditative and absorbing, I fondly hope that they will communicate the quiet hours spent colouring and patient days waiting for them to dry between layers. The layers are vital, they represent the years it has taken for me to reach this point with my own art.

Here is a taste of the first one,

Day one of the progress blogging.