December 12th, 2021 – a big triptych! – Michael Gallagher Paintings & Drawings

I was excited and anxious to go a bit larger with the idea of painting a continuous scene over three temporarily attached supports. I had planned to paint early morning but by the time I set up and started, the few interesting clouds had cleared and everything was, frankly, a bit dull. I had blocked in the main masses but decided to set the canvases aside for the greater part of the day.

Upton Lake, MG painting, December 12th, 2021, PHOTO: Mark Powell

I started again late in the afternoon, as the sun began to sink in the west and the light became supercharged and transformative.

Upton Lake, Golden Hour I, December 12th, Oil on canvas with black chalk and scraping, 36 x 24”, 2021

Upton Lake, Golden Hour II, December 12th, Oil on canvas with black chalk and scraping, 36 x 24”, 2021

Upton Lake, Golden Hour III, December 12th, Oil on canvas with black chalk and scraping, 36 x 24”, 2021

The details give some idea of the need to paint rapidly and with complete conviction as the light was dropping quickly.

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I think because I had worked so quickly, I was rather insecure on the day as to whether the paintings were truly finished. Mark predicted I would be happy in a week – he was right! And, if you are reading this today – Happy New Year!

Upton Lake, MG photographing finished paintings, December 18th, 2021, PHOTO: Mark Powell

Upton Lake, Golden Hour Triptych, December 12th,
Each canvas 36 x 24”,
2021

11 Comments

Nice work!! The New Year promises more courageous moves! Go for it and a big encouraging hug!, Lucy

Michael-I sent you forceful encouragement but know if it went through-in any case-keep it up!!

Michael Gallagher says:

January 2, 2022 at 9:49 am

Yes it did! Thank you Lucy – that means so much. And thanks for persevering with this clunky site!! Mxx

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