Nox

40cm x 30cm

charcoal on scored, creased and cut paper

I wasn't sure this drawing would be successful in mosaic form but I have to say I'm pleased with the outcome. I believe it has worked in a way that gives the piece an enigmatic quality...it gives the illusion that the subject has been carved into the surface of stone? There are potentially still three more strips for the right hand side of the drawing, if I decide to add them. I'll be starting a large piece on Thursday...!

Remains of a mosaic

30cm x 40cm

coloured charcoal on scored and cut paper

This piece is now finished. Whilst making it, the subject began to take on a different identity from my original plan for her (Nox, goddess of night). As I worked I came to relate the character to Dido from the story of 'Dido and Aeneas'. This tale can be found in Virgil's 'Aeneid'. Dido, Queen of Carthage, despairs over her love for the Trojan hero, Aeneas, after he abandons her. Not very cheery I know, but full of irresistible drama and passion! The drawing below is the one I have in mind to use for Nox. I'm not a hundred percent sure that this drawing will work as a mosaic piece as there's not alot of tonal contrast present, but at the same time it could be interesting because of that. So...there's only one way to find out...an that's to cut it up and see!! 

'Nox'

Prior to Christmas I was working on a commissioned portrait (double portrait I might add) which I agreed to take on at the last minute. As it was to be given as a Christmas present,  I am glad to tell you I managed to finish it just in time...phew!! I was happy with the result and hopefully the recipient was too :)
'Nox'  (Roman Goddess of Night) is my first work of the new year. I'm experimenting with smaller tesserae for this piece so it's taking more time to assemble. Therefore, progress is slower and therefore, it's demanding even more patience...very testing!! The drawing was made with coloured charcoal which I love. I discovered coloured charcoal two or three years ago and have been using it ever since. If you like earthy colours and you like working with charcoal, I would definitely recommend these.

I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy, peaceful and bountiful 2014
And have a great weekend!