ART IN DETAIL
The Creation of
RETURN TO DECIMOMANNU
Oil on stretched canvas 30” x 23”
This painting was commissioned by a former Royal Navy, Fleet Air Arm Sea Harrier Squadron Air Engineer Officer. The scene depicts Sea Harrier ZE698, from 899 Naval Air Squadron, returning to Decimomannu Air Base, Sardinia, following a combat exercise, circa 1985.
I discussed various scene options with the customer and the preferred angle to view the Sea Harrier. A scene featuring Sardinia was chosen, as Sea Harrier pilots would fly training exercises out of Decimomannu air base. Given the Sea Harriers role, it was important to include a large expanse of sea with a lesser indication of land, so Isola Piana was chosen as the location for the backdrop, as this small island was on the return track to Decimomannu.
I gradually develop a painting with several thin layers of paint. Oil paints are translucent to a certain degree, so as each layer is applied the image becomes more solid and defined. I prefer to paint this way, rather than applying a single thick layer of paint, as this process allows for a smooth finish, fine detailing and takes close scrutiny.
I firstly constructed a 1:48 scale model of a Sea Harrier FRS1 to use as a reference model. Models are a good aid for understanding the overall form of an aircraft and how light reflects off the various surfaces in differing light conditions.
Some models can however have limitations regarding the finer details and are no substitute for viewing the actual aircraft, so in this instance I also visited the Fleet Air Museum to study their FRS1 on display and take numerous close up reference photos. The gathered information was invaluable in getting the details correct.
My canvases are made to order, to any size, using fine grade canvas on hardwood stretcher bars. For this painting, the canvas was made to 30” x 23” to match the size of two paintings previously commissioned by the same customer.
I firstly designed a composition for approval and then drew the outline onto the canvas. I try to have a plan and stick to it, rather than making large changes as the painting progresses.
After drawing the outline, I then applied the first layer of paint. The canvas will be painted over several times, so this first coat doesn’t need to be overly detailed; it is just to provide basic form and colour.
I generally produce a painting using 3-4 layers of paint, plus a final detailing layer, with each layer getting more detailed. At this stage, I am now applying the oils mixed to be closer to the final colour, shade and tone.
It is now easier to visualise the final image, so the final layers can be applied without any major changes to the composition.
The final part of the painting process is to add all of the finishing touches, such as panel lines, weathering, exhaust staining, highlights and smaller decals. The amount of weathering and aging depends on the aircraft involved. A WW2 bomber will have significantly more wear and tear than a modern airliner for example.
It is always important to get the details correct, but especially so when the customer knows every panel line of the aircraft involved.
I enjoy adding the final detailing, it is my favourite part of the painting process. For me, a painting never looks complete until these little touches are added.
Porto Villamarina - Isola Piana forms an integral part of the painting story, as the island is located on the track of the return flight to Decimomannu. Some artistic license was used in relation to the exact position and altitude of the overflying jet so that the island could be seen in detail.
The end of the painting process. Sometimes a retouching varnish is required to reinvigorate some of the colours, usually the darker colours, but not always. The painting then needs to rest for a few weeks as the oils harden, before applying the final varnish.
I find it fascinating to work on commissions, as they can often feature lesser-known events. I’ve always liked the look of the FRS1 Sea Harrier, but would never have thought of portraying one flying off the coast of Sardinia, without a commission such as this. It is enjoyable to learn new facts.