Jeanine,

The painting looks very nice and I also wanted to congratulate you to a job well done.

I am thrilled to see how you were able to really push the background back. Some of us really didn't care for the pitcher, since it was so distracting. Now even though it is still there, it has become barely noticeable. In my opinion, you successfully handled making a background less obstrusive. Good for you!

Jeanine, I love it even more with the close up you have posted! Wonderful, wonderful!

I am hoping there is a thread on the GamVar varnish elsewhere, I'll perform a search, if not - hint!

Elizabeth,

I copied this from another thread I know not where:

"Why bother. Why use a varnish that is so problematic to remove, jeopardizing the underlying paint layers, not to mention exposure to a highly toxic thinner turpentine. Damar varnish is about as relevant as outdoor plumbing these days.

Gamblin makes a varnish called Gamvar (gaining high praise from conservators world wide) which can be more easily removed using much less toxic Gamsol (mineral spirits.)

The great traditions of Western Art are certainly worthy of being sustained. The use of Damar varnish isn't one of them!"

Marvin Mattleson 8-7-02

GamVar
 

Clear as water, the best. Make sure you don't buy it the day you need it. It is dry crystals that have to be shaken for about 24 hours. Get only as much as you need. Most painters are apparently unaware that varnish has a shelf life of only about 6 months.

Good Luck with the Vernissage! Ralph looks great!

Sincerely,

PS. For Beth, GamVar is made by Gamblin paints

THIS IS YOUR BEST!
 

Jeanine,

Beautiful! This piece is alive! I watch and wait for him to blink or get up and dust himself off. You've really captured a sliver in time, and you did such a wonderful job adding life with the background.

Congratulations!

Jeanine,

This is a wonderful painting and the husband ought to be very happy. I've been watching your progress on it, thanks for sharing your train of thought.

Congratulations on a fine job!

Best wishes,
Linda

Congratulations
 

Jeanine,

This piece came out nicely. Congratulations.

Regards,

:thumbsup: Jeanine

I am not pro such as yourself but nonetheless have watched your progress on this and I too agree that the handling of the background is fantastic. This is a very lucky man to receive it from you.