TECHNIQUE

Inspiration / Technique / About Ophelia / Clive James Review

Initially Ophelia began painting in oil pastel and gouache on paper. A ground in oil pastel establishes the colour basis of the composition, after which the gouache, a water-based paint, is applied. The reaction between oil-based and water-based substances causes separations of colour which play against each other and result in a textured finish.

Four years ago she moved into working in oil on paper. Unlike a primed canvas, the thick, porous paper she uses absorbs much of the oil, leaving a matt surface which contributes to an overall effect of saturated colour.

At times she incorporates collage techniques. Newsprint, pages of worn-out sheet-music or old books feature frequently in her work.