Day 46: Ode to Zecchi’s

Day 46: Ode to Zecchi’s

Anyone who has lived, visited or painted in Florence recognizes these bottles. They come from the famous art shop Zecchi’s. These bottles are to found laying around everywhere along with little paintings of them; I’m certainly not the first or last person to make a painting of them! They’re irresistible, the linseed oil ones at least with their brilliant yellow glow.

I think we can safely say that this leg of the project is to be known as bizarre still lives. This painting was quite a challenge, as all of the still lives are proving to be. Making a painting in one sitting, pushing around that oily paint without the chance for it to dry, or to come back to it later with a fresh eye is the biggest challenge with these little paintings. It makes me have to think about how to approach the painting in the most economical way. I can’t say that I have been too successful in this feat, but the thought process is valuable and is forcing me to be more careful yet decisive in my brushstrokes. I noticed today how many times I don’t always put down the correct value and color where it belongs, but create more work for myself by letting myself put down something that is “close enough” and then have to go back later and scrape away and redo. This process not only takes longer to make a finished painting, but it also makes it more difficult to be precise and clear about what is where and things start getting muddy.

A good lesson, and one that I will take to heart for future paintings. (and maybe this could apply to other areas of life as well)

To view this painting or buy it directly from my website, click here

To view or buy other paintings from the 100 day project click here

All paintings are 6×8”, painted on birch, unframed and cost $100 (+ $15 shipping). Paintings can be bought directly from the website using paypal or you can contact me at kellyaskey@gmail.com

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