BORBAY

Yesterday, I set up in the lounge of Midtown hot spot, BUtterfield8 NYC to create an interior. This photograph was taken in the bathroom, a stark lighting contrast to the romantic, ever-dimming setting in which it was created. Thus, I decided to pull the plug and finish this picture another day.

Process after the jump.

Setting up shop, right away, I realized the low lighting would set the atmosphere, and challenge the creation of a palette.

Beginning the piece, sans Sharpie… something new for me.

Laying out the picture – at first, I wasn’t sure which composition to choose, so I took a photograph and held it up to the canvas for guidance.

Nearly all laid out in Hooker’s Green.

Splashing in some of the warmer tones… cherry wood walls, floors and paneling.

Further adding in the rich, dark tones.

I want this picture to feel like the space, not necessarily look like the space – thinking Van Gogh’s Night Cafe, and any one of Lautrec’s interiors; sans people.

More lights, trying to understand how the ceiling factors in.

A lovely, ugly green to fill in all of the whites – my moment of zen, a white free canvas.

Exploring lighter tones, beginning to get lost in the fading light.

Action shot courtesy of my lovely lady.

Again, rocking the new hat. Also, discovered another adjustment factor on my easel – I love this thing.

It’s time to call it a night, thank you for the hospitality BUtterfield8, appreciate the chat Dixie.

Staring me down from the bathroom, a challenge, “can you finish me?” I think so canvas, I think so.