Faux Bois Embrace

2021

28” x 16” oil on masonite

framed with a simple black molding

The title of this piece references the technique used in the underpainting. Faux bois (from the French for false wood) refers to the artistic imitation of wood or wood grains in various media. This crazily colored variation was created by rocking and pulling a tool through the wet underpainting.

I intentionally chose an image for this underpainting that would be centered on the panel and ‘framed’ by the faux bois technique. The happy accident of the piece is the way the background creates an energetic aura around the figures. It’s as if the atmosphere is vibrating.