Small paintings on paper can still have as much impact as a larger painting in the right space.
Small paintings on paper are one of the best ways I find to relax, especially if I’m in the middle of working on a larger canvas painting or have just finished one. There’s something genuinely enjoyable about being spontaneous with colour, allowing myself to experiment freely without overthinking.
I tend to use ridiculously large brushes for the size of the painting which might seem unusual, but somehow it works beautifully. Painting on paper requires you to be quick and decisive, which probably encourages a more spontaneous approach.
Unlike canvas, where you can adjust and remove paint, paper demands a certain level of commitment to each brushstroke, making the process both challenging and rewarding in its own right.
‘Sunset Waltz’ - 22 x 19 cms -acrylic on handmade paper
In this small painting, ‘Sunset Waltz’ it’s the gorgeous large brushstrokes of cobalt blue hue in the sky and touches of it on the horizon combined with the vivid glowing orange that both work harmoniously alongside the soft pink and all truly pull this little painting together.
I chose the title partly because of the way the colours in the landscape seem to be dancing gracefully, but also because of the way the colours themselves dance and interact with each other in their own right.
You might not necessarily expect vivid orange and pink to be paired or even dare to use such a bright and intense colour on the horizon, but just that subtle flick of a brushstroke is exactly what this painting needs to work beautifully.
Below you can see four completely different studies. Whether it’s the colour palette chosen, the direction and movement of the brushstrokes, or the varied texture created by the layering and use of the paint, each piece stands out as unique. Yet, despite their differences, they all unmistakably reflect my individual style and artistic approach.
You can many more smaller paintings on paper here or follow my day to day journey on Instagram. Or you can email me with any questions or if you would like some more information on shipping or sending paintings.