Religious Window Displays in Rome

"Advent Purple," oil on linen, 10"x8"

The first time I passed by a window display of clerical garments it was dusk, near Piazza della Minerva in Rome. The light was glowing on the decorative vestments, stoles, chalices and other ornamental pieces. They were beautiful displays of ecclesiastical wear.  As an artist, and also a lady who has spent many a year in Catholic schools, I thought there could be something unique about painting these displays.  I took pictures and painted "The Pope's Tailor" (below) when I returned.  I always meant to paint more from the photographs, but never did.  So now, several years later, I have painted "Advent Purple," the first in a new series I've begun.  (The garment I've painted is a surplice, worn by clergy in a choir, during processions and when administering the sacraments.  The purple stole is worn during Advent and the Season of Lent, also during confessional.)

"The Pope's Tailor" painted in 2008 (sold).

"China Blue," oil on linen, 8"x16" -  SOLD

Here is a new painting I just finished.  I have wanted to paint this one for some time.  I happened to have my camera with me when I wandered into an antique store last year.  I saw this lovely china set stacked in a cabinet.  It was a still life waiting to be painted!  I loved the warm gray greens, also the color of the blue in the china.  I spent a lot of time deciding on and working through a specific and limited palette for this painting.  (No reaching for the Alizarin, Ultramarine, Raw Sienna shadow combo....this time.)  As I painted, I reminded myself to keep the brush strokes soft and painterly.  I had a clear vision of what I wanted the painting to look like, to feel like.....I just needed to have patience with this one.  Trying a limited palette of colors to achieve the color harmony, values and tones I was after was a great lesson and a welcomed challenge.  I hope you like it.  (This painting has was selected for the Salon International Exhibit 2011 held in April this year.)

"Orange Half with Top" oil on linen, 6"x8"