The photographs here were taken in my studio and show five stages of the painting ‘The Heaven and the Earth, Portrait of the Muldown Sisters’.
Mostly I was working from memory and only using photographic reference as an occasional aide-mémoire. These images hopefully show how relations between colour, rhythm and shape interweave with each other to produce the finished painting - how it is that relationships of abstractions produce form and space to constitute ‘likeness’. The principle is exactly the same as in music; it is the relationship between the notes that form the song, not the notes themselves.
And this, believe it of not, is the true key to “painting more freely”. I’ll explain how and why this works in later blogs and during my course at the Mill Tye Gallery in May.
The Heaven and the Earth, Portrait of the Muldown Sisters 70 x 54 cm the final version below.
If you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into Chris Bennett’s artistic process, don’t miss the opportunity to experience his work in person. ‘Girl in the Moon: An Exhibition by Chris Bennett R.O.I.’ opens on Saturday 3rd May 2025 at the Mill Tye Gallery and Arts Centre. Join us for the preview day with drinks and nibbles to celebrate this evocative collection, the exhibition continues until Bank Holiday Monday 26th May 2025.
For those inspired to explore the art of portraiture, Chris will also be hosting Portrait Drawing and Painting Workshops throughout May:
Sunday Workshop: Sunday 11th May (10:30 am–12:30 pm) – £36 per person
Three-Evening Course: Tuesday 13th, Thursday 15th, and Tuesday 20th May (6:30–9:00 pm) – £140 per person
Spaces are limited, so book early to secure your place.
We can’t wait to welcome you!
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