Black can be a particularly challenging color to use. It is very bold and rich. It’s so absolute in value that it’s hard to create an atmospheric effect using it. The black in this painting is mostly composed of dark browns made from burnt sienna and ultramarine blue. It breathes a little. But I want the mystery of the very darkest background. In this painting and in some others, I have explored the sensation of an atmospheric deep shadow.
All the other elements serve some role in striving after that effect. Its size also participates in the experiment. It’s a largish picture, measuring 44 x 34 inches. I want to create a life-sized feeling of the space.
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