The Gold Leaf
Visions in gold and colorArt
The Gold Leaf
The gold leaf is very delicate and it takes finess to work it. At first I experimented with various types of faux gold but was always disappointed. 24k gold leaf was the only medium that enchanted me and had to be my choice of materials despite its difficulty of application and cost.
Gold leaf comes in small 8 cm x 8 cm (3.15 x 3.15 in) sheets only 0.18 microns thick. It is delicately applied to a layer of specialized varnish. The varnish is brushed onto to chosen areas of the canvas where gold will be applied. This process is the most laborious and painstaking phase of creating a painting.
Fragile and light
Gold leaf is incredibly fragile and light weight which is why I am often holding my breath as I handle it. I rarely apply solid blocks of gold but rather crackle the opaque gold allowing the colors in the background to peer through, thus invigorating the play of colors laid down previously.
Years ago I first considered the use of gold in my work when I fell in love with the work of Iranian artist Jafar Rouhbakhsh. In his paintings Rouhbakhsh used hints of gold that added something of another dimension to his work. Ever since then and my first trials, gold has become an integral part of my work.
Gold in the Arts
For centuries, artists and artisans have turned to gold leaf to make their creations shine. Found in everything from antique artifacts to modern masterpieces, shimmering gold accents can add an ethereal touch to any work of art. Read more
Beauty working with Gold
Today, many contemporary designers use gold leaf in their work. Gold leaf is not only a more versatile alternative to solid gold, it is also celebrated for its ability to accentuate colors and shapes with luminous details. Read more
What is Gold Leaf?
Gold leaf is solid gold that has been hammered into thin sheets of gold. This process is called gold beating and the technique of using gold leaf to decorate a surface is called gilding. Read more
Effulgence
Inspired by the circular nature of radiance, an inkling of the devine
Radiance
The radiance of celestial bodies with the marriage of gold and color
Convergence
Series base on the Mandala, the journey through the cycles of birth-life-death