My study of Vincent Van Gogh’s 1889 “Irises” oil painting.
14″ x 18″ Acrylic on Archival Canvas Panel
I was thrilled when I heard the MAPS Master to be studied for June and July was Vincent Van Gogh. I was lucky enough to see his original 1889 “Irises” this year at the Getty Center, and was mesmerized by the incredible detail and texture to his work. I was hoping to be able to replicate it, and thinking I had chosen a panel 1/2 the size of the original I set to work…My embarrassment regarding the ensuing faux pas is only exaggerated by the fact that being a sculptor I deal in “mass”. I had in fact chosen a panel 1/4 the size of the original work…so much of the fabulous texture had to be left off.
I spent almost 120 hours on this piece. It became a true labor of love. And it was not until I got down to the dirt at the bottom, that I realized it was truly impossible for me to copy the strokes and colors contained in that small area. So I leave this as is. And totally in love with Vincent…who signed this piece with a Heart above his name. I have added it on my own study as it truly does belong there…to someone who so cared about humanity and it’s sufferings.
