How I created my most recent large scale flower painting

Creating a big painting is exciting but can be overwhelming. I have broken down my process.

Prep work:

Each large painting starts with prep work. If the painting is a commission, I would speak with the client about the space the painting will be going in and the colours they like, their favourite flowers and likes/dislikes.

I contact my photographer Gabe who is brilliant and knows how to photograph my chosen flowers for me to translate to painting. 

Next is the fun part. I wake up early and spent the day or a few days leading up to the shoot sourcing the freshest florals. I go to local florists such as Lilac & Willow, Pearsons, as well as going to my local flower market. I usually buy an abundance of flowers so I have a variety of choices and the potential to create multiple paintings.

Gabe works his magic on the shoot and I wait for the final photos.

In the meantime, I create small studies of the flowers after the shoot. I set them up in a vase and focus on the form. I also order my custom linen canvas from the Sydney Art Store and any other supplies I might need.

Once I have chosen my Image, I get it printed in A1 from Officeworks in colour, as well as black and white.

Getting to work:

Drawing the image up perfectly is super important for me as I leave my linen background exposed. I have to be super careful not to get any paint anywhere I wouldn't want it to be seen such as my edges. To combat this, I place tape around the edges of the canvas before I start painting.

Referencing my black and white image I have printed, I always start with a monochromatic tonal painting using burnt umber. Burnt umber is one of the fastest drying oil paints so I am able to place washes of colour shortly after.

I always set up my palette with all the colours I have so I am not limited. I focus on one petal at a time but stepping back to see the painting as a whole. 

Depending on how involved my client wants to be I'll send them a progress photo or video from time to time. 

Once it's finished:

I wait for the work to be touch dry (around 2 weeks) and wrap it carefully in a lot of bubble wrap.

Depending on how local my client lives I will deliver the painting personally or organise an art courier. This painting is available for purchase. Please contact me through the Contact page on my website for more info.