STUDIO ANGEL CORREA

Technique and materials used

 

Mixed media on canvas (colour printed polycotton fabric): Acrylics, vinyl paints, medium, gesso, charcoal powder, water-based inks, permanent-ink markers, and matte varnish

 

Detailed description of the work

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I found myself enthusiastically working on this diptych before I even stretched the fabric onto the frame. I was keen to complement the big flowery pattern of the fabric, using both cold and bright-green paints; it was in so doing that I commemorated the texture and surface of the canvas, which is soft and polished, but also somehow unusually matte in terms of finish.

 

Bold colour brings contrast to this composition, and together with the big flowery pattern, there is for me a graphic depiction of a set of emotions which has the power to heal, grow and improve our lives – all whilst remaining tolerant of ourselves, and of each other. With such a backdrop of inspiration, I felt that I could communicate more reverently these two women who are deeply in love; they are, after all, celebrating their happiness at their wedding. This was achieved using an array of large and small rounded brushes.

 

This artwork is particularly special to me because it was whilst painting ‘Hanna & Emily’ that I understood that art is helping me to define my own identity, to build courage, and to reinforce the idea that it is acceptable to be myself – it is okay to embrace my sexual orientation, and it is healthy to embrace my feelings. I know now that there is a connection between my art and myself; between my art and those who are inspired by its inevitably personal message.

           

The realisation came to me that I’m here to reflect a certain set of cultural values, beliefs, and identity as a member of multiple minority fraternities.  I wanted to create a painting for “these girls”, reminding them that day-to-day living, and not just life’s celebratory moments, can be vibrant, vivid, full of excitement – there to enjoy, and free of toxic chains that wed people to what I consider to be outmoded cultural understandings.   This is definitely a great piece of intrepid art for the lionhearted owner.