Dirty Pastels Orange Blue Ochre

A rare chance to own one of the very popular "Dirty Pastels" series which tend to sell out within a short period of time. This is the very first using a new pastel colour scheme developed by Watkin over several weeks in response to collectors' requests and the inspiration of Monet and impressionism. The painting is quite simply lovely, calming, complex, and peaceful. When the changing light hits those raised edges reflect light, cast shadows, and the whole piece changes colour and mood.
This artwork is a part of Watkin's latest series, featuring expansive canvases created through his innovative crosshatch expressionism technique. Culminating from nearly a hundred experiments, studies, and, inevitably, setbacks, the finalized process amalgamates Watkin's fascination with lineation, scraping, the utilization of paddles, crosshatching, texture, and color.
The method entails meticulously planned layering of expressive paddle-applied bands of color, reminiscent of Richter's style. Subsequently, these layers are removed using various tilers' paddles, revealing and altering the underlying stripes of color. This intricate process spans several days, requiring the repeated application and removal of wet paint, turning each session into an intense, almost trance-like experience. Thus, the term crosshatch expressionism encapsulates the creation of a structured grid infused with expressionist emotion. The outcome is intricate, textured, rhythmic, and highly detailed; however, from a distance, it exudes harmony and tranquility. The elevated paint surface imparts a tactile and sculptural quality, blending matte and gloss finishes.