Mary Jane Ansell

Technique

I often get asked about my technique so wanted to shed a little insight into the way I build up my paintings here. 

I use an indirect method, building up many layers of increasing detail, firstly with a light charcoal sketch then building up a monochrome grisaille underpainting over which I gradually add colour with both transparent glazes and full bodied colour. 

It is a time consuming process but I really enjoy the unique qualities it can give - the surface becomes egg shell smooth and offers very delicate tonal variations impossible with other painting methods.