Twisting Figure, oil on canvas, 24×48 in. originally uploaded by ahtravis.
I could feel my own figure twist and contort to bring the loaded palate knife to the point on the canvas where I wanted it to sweep across the surface. My strokes always curve and they did this time. My arm moved loosely from my shoulder, the elbow down, or up. My body moved to the left or right of the canvas as required, head erect or sometimes upside down.
The first, basic strokes were done quickly, almost in a frenzy, though those initial applications were preceded by careful, slow consideration. After that frenzied beginning I worked slowly, making small adjustments until I was pleased with the overall effect. I worked in silence but there was music and dancing in my brain.
bragg hollow studio 