St. Michael the Archangel -Original Watercolor Painting
A Year of Saints: Created as part of the A Year of Saints Collection. Learn more about this collection and the outlook that shaped my process HERE.
Details: An original painting, unframed, 4.5x6 inches, pencil outline layered in high quality watercolor pigments on cold-pressed (textured) paper. Artist's signature clearly visible in fine-tipped brown art pen.
Watercolor paintings develop layer by layer until the portrait comes into focus — glowing and interesting. This particular palette is warm and monochromatic, with subtle blues and reds.
The air around this saint is almost on fire, indicating the battles he is fighting against Hell, while the golden glow of victory can be sensed predominantly. The demon beneath him has almost been vanquished, and Saint Michael's eyes are already raised to subdue the next one.
Inspiration: The one thing I was seeking with Saint Michael was to depict him as the fierce warrior and protector he is! I shortened his hair and sharpened his features to add masculinity, though his coloring and wings remain delicate.
I try to discover what each saint is "saying" to me while painting by discerning elements that strike me most particularly. I thought of all the hundreds of times I've said the St. Michael Prayer, and all the millions of recitations every day in the Church, and I was just struck by his never-ending battle against Hell. He is constantly striving to protect the world and the Faithful, according to God's will for us.
The movement in this piece is ongoing, indicated by his spread wings, gaze, and pose. He has been fighting since the dawn of time, and will continue this fight until the end!
Framing: I imagine this painting matted or floating over a mat in a neutral white or cream color to showcase the golden palette and not to take away from the portrait. I'd set it in a frame that complements your home’s aesthetic, in a dark wood or simple metalic.
More information on how to best preserve and frame your artwork will come with your painting shippment. Please feel free to email me at rosalie.ardentdraws@gmail.com with any other questions!
