Lunch Bag
(12" x 12", oil on canvas)

The humble lunch bag is my somewhat non-traditional subject matter for this small canvas. My use of a defined single light source further emphasizes the sculptural quality of the bag.

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Rocha Doré
(12" x 24", oil on canvas)

I am drawn to the simple dignity of cast iron, but it can be difficult to paint. Cast iron absorbs light and can often appear lifeless on the canvas. I took some liberties with this pot in an attempt to reveal it's austere beauty... and I think it is the perfect foil for the glowing Rocha pears.

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Boda & Fruit
(30" x 20", oil on canvas)

I believe that paintings done on a small scale create an intimate connection with the viewer. It is for this reason that I generally work to scale, preferring to invite you, the viewer, in closer for a one-on-one chat. While impossible to discern here, I stepped out of my comfort zone and "super-sized" my subject. The result, when seen in person, is a big statement that can be heard across the room.

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Sfumato
(12" x 24", oil on canvas)

Sfumato, derived from fumo, the Italian word for smoke, is a term used to describe the use of soft or lost edges in a painting. I have put this technique to use here to create a sense of mystery and to tease the viewer into finishing my edges for me. Often, the information the artist chooses to leave out of a painting is more critical to the success of a piece than the information provided.

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Canada Improved Honey
(12" x 12", oil on canvas)

I admit it! I can't seem to get enough of this little jar. The proportions are just right for this size of canvas and after last week's large piece, I was ready for a change of pace.

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Cook's Collection
(18" x 36", oil on canvas)

After doing a few small studies, two of which were featured last week, I felt ready to tackle this larger piece. I arranged and rearranged the bottles countless times before finding a pleasing balance. Once this basic structure was in place, I proceeded to fill in the gaps with vegetables, breaking up the larger shapes and adding organic lines and textures. While there is much to look at in this composition, I believe the harmonies created by the combinations of shapes and tones remain true to my love of a quiet mood.

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Vinegar #1 and Vinegar #2
(12" x 12" each, oil on canvas)

Over the past few months, I have been expanding my bottle collection with a few more specialty vinegars and oils. In preparation for a large work, I am doing some smaller pieces to get a feel for these new shapes. The lessons I learn from these exploratory paintings should serve me well once I am ready to start work on a bigger canvas.

If you’d like to be included on my Painting of the Week email list please write me at daniele@DanieleLemieux.com.