I’ve been missing home, as I mentioned on my last post. This time of the year, for the last fifteen years, is always hard for me for two specific reasons. First being how cold and snowy it usually is. Second being… well, it’s Carnaval. Although I was never the one into all of the heavy partying situation while I was still living back home, I always enjoyed the days off (nobody works or goes to school for about a week during the celebration), summer, the beach, hanging out with my family and friends, all of those sweet moments I could never forget.
I was never into the parades, but I have always been intrigued by the other rituals that happen to celebrate carnival in other parts of the world. Most catholic countries have some variation of carnival. And this year my dear father reminded me of probably the most ludic party of all, the Venetian Carnival. We are Italian by blood, and that inspired me for today’s painting. ‘Carnavale di Venezia’.
The mask, the face. I was not totally sure how this one would turn out.
What I knew for sure was that no carnival happens without feathers.
Lots of feathers…
…seriously, LOTS of feathers!
Painting a face is very difficult for me, so I figured going for a profile would reduce the challenge at least…50%. It was a very good idea since I was freehand painting. Otherwise I would have outlined the picture first.
When I first started watercolor painting I didn’t think I’d enjoy using metallic paint. Well, I found out I actually LOVE it. So painting the details of the mask was super relaxing and enjoyable!
I also absolutely love using the black paint. It’s so pure, and it dries beautifully.
More golden details on the mask, and then I decided to use it to also highlight the feathers.
I love the effect of the highlights depending on the angle you look at it. It’s mesmerizing.
I am so absolutely in love with this piece! Don’t mind me tooting my own horn, I’m never this confident about my art, put I am proud of this one. I even put it up on my refrigerator (no joke!). I also think the solid bright colors on the background look so festive!
So that’s it for my carnival 2022. I hope you are having a great one too!
Gisele's Gallery 