Paradox2, 2021

Nicholas Robertson  

Continuing the series of paintings with a metal military helmet, in this case, an American WW2 one. I wanted to portray older people in something only worn in earnest by younger people; therein lies the paradox. I have long been interested in the industrial design mantra of 'Form follows Function', ably represented by military helmet design. So many national variants but all with the same purpose: to protect young men and women in war. A Rowney Cryla acrylic base coat of burnt orange over the gesso manufacturer's finish. Opaque pigments are used to lay down some areas, also acting as an undercoating for some subject matter. Subsequent layers of acrylic paint have been applied, laced with Liquidex airbrush medium and deionized water as a wash layer. This thin multiple layering of pigment allows for a degree of luminosity, avoiding the usual flat acrylic finish. Painted on Superior rolled canvas board. Finished with a coat of Winsor & Newton Satin UV varnish; this not only protects the painting but has a unifying effect. Ready to Hang. Signature Location: left lower corner.