Crocosmia

About the painting

Crocosmia is a large abstract painting created with enamel paints. I’ve used a series of warm tones here which are led by orange, yellow and red. This is a particularly enjoyable combination of colours to work with, and I enjoy using them wherever possible. Additionally, there are also subtle addition of purple, black, white and pink.

For any botanists or flower enthusiasts that may come across this piece, the name is synonymous with the plant genus Crocosmia. A quick internet search reveals many varieties, but I am always reminded of the ones that carry this colour of flower.

Creating the painting

The painting was created using a window mop – it’s a tool that attaches to a long extension pole that’s familiar in the window cleaning industry. My use, though altogether different, does share similar traits with how window cleaners apply detergent to vertical surfaces. Most of my movements tend to be circular in their action but I do also choose to move in slow half rotations as well as full ones.

It’s a neat tool to use and one that can conjure up an infinite number of variations to a basic movement. I can also pick up and put down paint as well as adjust direction, speed and pressure to the contact point of the mophead. The video below is of it being painted so it might be a good idea to have a watch if you’re curious to learn more about the technique.