My process

I sketch my composition using graphite on the canvas or paper, then protect it using sprayable fixative. I then layer on an underpainting. Lately, I have been experimenting with using super-saturated underpainting colors, like the bright magenta you can see peaking out in Yosemite 1. I tend to leave the work overnight at this point to let the underpainting firm up and the idea to marinate.

I then use thin layers of oil paint and oil pastel to block out the colors and light. Once I’m happy with the overall look, I gradually add more detail and texture. Each successive layer after the initial blocking uses thicker and more oily layers of paint, until I am satisfied with the final work and texture.

Some artists pre-mix all their colors, I tend to mix them as needed. It feels more natural to me. Follow me on TikTok to see my process in detail: @hey.its.joules

I’m very pleased with this painting. I think it’s a real landmark in my style and process, combining the texture-making-pattern first really explored in Sunflowers 2 and Tulips and Lemons and the landscape subject matter seen in Yosemite 1.

The subject matter was also challenging, between the difficulty in separating the far background trees and field and in handling the poppies on top of the foreground field.

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