I wanted to look further into the term ‘Chiaroscuro’ for this assignment, I liked the dramatic effect it had on paintings. Following on from the research I had done earlier on in this course, I wondered if I could apply the ‘Chiaroscuro’ technique to a ‘Still Life’ piece. I found some interesting floral ‘Still Life’s’ by the artist ‘Jan Davidz. De Heem’ who used this dark background with a floral display in front. I like how the colour of the flowers almost pop against the dark setting behind.

I then found items for my ‘Still Life’ taking into consideration my light source, background and subject. I went with creating a black background from an old jacket, using daylight as my light source, then with a hyacinth plant in a pot as my subject of choice. I have used Acrylics on canvas, opting for them as my choice of medium down to their quick drying time and low odour. I made a few colour tests in my sketchbook and have also roughly drawn out a few sketches to make sure the composition worked ok.

Below is a charcoal version which I have sprayed with a setting spray to stop it from smudging. I have also taken a picture during my final piece at the part where I was painting in the negative space around the  Hyacinth. I think it was a good idea to step away at this point just to see how the composition was looking and to make sure the area of negative space to positive space was working ok?!

I’m quite pleased with the final outcome of this painting although I found the details of the flowers and the colour match of the table quite hard to do. I think the dark background makes the colour of the flowers stand out. I’m also quite happy with the tonal values on the vase, with the light reflection helping to create the form.
I think perhaps a better study of how to make a more convincing wood effect might have been a good idea? Something to think on for future reference!