Investigation of the figure in costume and Magic Realism

1. 2D AP PORTFOLIO
Concentration &
Breadth

2. Concentration Statement:
I am investigating the costumed figure by juxtaposing fantasy with reality. Using a
variety of mediums and strong compositions, I hoped to achieve a unifying
incandescent golden radiance that creates an ethereal mood. My interest is
predominantly realistic art but I have merged it with fantasy to create Magic Realism.
My concentration demonstrates how gold can be used to create a undeniable mood.
My first experience with gold was while working with pastel (my first concentration
piece). I liked the look and mood it provoked so I started painting in oil
initially, trying to achieve a golden tone. In my forth concentration piece I started
applying a gold leaf which gave me the look I was targeting. In the sixth piece I used
the gold leaf to help me create effective eerie negative space around the face. As I
became comfortable with the gold leaf method, I could integrate it with the theme of
each specific piece. The gold leaf is key in the themes of my last two pieces: the Greek
warrior displaying a golden breastplate with aged gold around his head, and the
golden apple painting, which used the gold as a principal aspect of the piece.
Throughout my concentration I got bolder in my use of gold leaf.
The figures in my later pieces mature in both subject matter and technique.
Influenced by Magic Realism artists of the past such as Ilya Repin, I strove to create a
mood superior to conventional oil painting because it shines with a celestial glow. In
addition my use of the rule of thirds composition on the tenth piece achieves a focal
point that directs the eye to the henna painted on her hand, which is key to the
cultural costume, and mystery it evokes.

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