Fantasy chiaroscuro

PATRICK J JONES paints The Sentinel using timeless oil painting techniques and methods, with an emphasis on dramatic lighting

Chiaroscuro is an Italian word meaning light and dark. As a kid I was enthralled by Disney’s masterpiece, Pinocchio, and the beautiful chiaroscuro invisibly woven into the art. The Disney artists understood the power and magic conjured by a pool of light. It was my first sense of light as composition and even though I didn’t understand it yet, it left an incredible impression.

The fact that our eye is drawn to dramatic light is a powerful hook, but the light must also contain a captivating image. When painting The Sentinel I imagined the sound of the dragon’s tail dragging slowly along the arid floor. To dig a little deeper I used allegory and symbolism. I chose the ageless allure of Beauty and Beast to engage the viewer’s imagination. The princess’s martyr pose may symbolise sacrifice, or any fantasy you dare to dream.

One art lover made my chiaroscuro composition and subliminal prompts worth the effort when he asked, “Which one is The Sentinel?” This kind of connection with another enquiring mind is what makes art special. With a single image we’re able to start an imaginative conversation that can go in any direction, opening up a world of possibilities. By pulling the viewer in they will ask questions, and dream the answers.

Patrick’s new figure drawing book, The Anatomy of Style, is released worldwide this month. He is also the best-selling author of Sci-Fi & Fantasy: Oil Painting Techniques. For more on Patrick and his art, visit www.pjartworks.com.