Something red.

Having recently taken my painting “Doughnut Treats” up to the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, I was reminded of the story of how JMW Turner had turned up at the varnishing Day of the Summer Exhibition, in his time, and felt his painting was not standing up well against Constables entry. So, not to be outdone, he painted a bright red Buoy in his sea which contrasted strikingly with the green of the water. Since then adding a splash of red to a painting has been associated with Turner.

I have just been painting this complex Little Gem lettuce leaf, thinking it would be good tonal subject. However I felt it lacked a certain something as I approached finishing it, so I have added a splash of red with a radish, and it has worked a treat. It also fits in well with the title. “Little Gem.” I just have to wait to varnish it now.