Mark Halsey
Mark Halsey's work is about the interplay of figuration and abstraction. It explores light upon the human form and depicts the nude for all its sensuality, vulnerability, spirituality and beauty. more
"My method of working does vary, but generally I like to work on several canvasses at any one time on the studio floor. Some of my paintings are the result of a carefully planned idea, whilst others are more experimental.
The background is nearly always worked on first by pouring diluted oil paint and wood dye over the canvas. I then watch as it merges and separates. This is the fun part of the painting as I can play around with the medium and see what is formed naturally. Going with the flow I work quickly and instinctively, hovering between control and spontaneity.
Brushes, rollers, rags and wire mesh are just some of the tools I use to create interesting effects on the surface of my paintings. I have also been experimenting with the reflective properties of gold leaf/metallic paint to add another dimension to the work.
Once I am happy with the finished background, I place the canvas on the easel to work carefully on the figure/figures. This can be done in 2 ways. I either highlight the form of a figure by using white spirit to rub away some of the background colour, or I simply use oils to paint in the figure"