The Alchemy of Summer: Gilding Study No. 1. 4" × 4" | Oil & genuine 22K Moon Gold leaf | Framed

Two bumblebees buzz among the larkspur in this small, richly textured painting inspired by the wildflower garden Jason has cultivated. Their busy flight and the delicate flowers became an opportunity to explore an ancient technique in an entirely new way.

The bas-relief elements were sculpted using homemade gesso made from rabbit-skin glue and whiting, following a process rooted in the traditions of the early Renaissance. Once the sculpture was created and cured, I applied layers of clay bole, creating the foundation for genuine 22K Moon Gold leaf. Some areas of the gold were then carefully burnished to a brilliant, mirror-like shine, while others were left softer and more subdued.

The result is a little painting that moves between painting, sculpture, and gilding—the bees and flowers emerging from a luminous, tactile surface.

There is so much more I want to explore with handmade gesso, sculpted surfaces, bole, gold, and oil paint.