Existence I, Oil and Paper on Canvas, 16” x 12”, 2020
The first portrait of the series is a self-portrait. The series is marked by the unique method of paper layering. This method, pioneered by Dylan Overheim, employs multiple layers of paper and oil paint, joined together by the reductive practice of tearing away portions of the paper layers to reveal the preceding layers. Each layer has significant value to the subject.
This portrait acts as a baseline for the later paintings in the series. Anxiety burns through all other layers with urgent reds and oranges. Following this, a burnt umber sketch atop fine, textured paper refers to the creative process and the importance of material choice. The final layer of paper is a dark, textured paper, with realistic colors painted on top. This grounds the image in reality. The tearing allows the ideas of the previous layers to shine through and better represent the multitudes of each subject.
Volunteer Portraits Project
The following images are portraits of people that chose to complete the Portrait Survey, which can be found here. Each layer was made with distinct features based on their respective responses. To find out more about each individual portrait, click on the image or the title. More portraits will be added as the project continues.
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Selena
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Johnny
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Ambedose
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Megan
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
ben
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Mycaelus
Oil, Paper, and Coffee on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Abby
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
LaPorshia
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Patricia
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021
Dre
Oil and Paper on Canvas, 14” x 10”, 2021