Metal Leaf Portfolio

Metal Leaf

Using either gold, silver or copper, these figurative paintings by Pamela Frankel Fiedler create an almost living texture through reflected light. The organic quality of the metal leaf projects a rich environment from which the figures can be perceived as either emerging from or fading into the background. The luminous surface has a fascinating ability that adapts to various lighting situations even appearing to softly glow in the dark.

METAL LEAF TECHNIQUE: Application of the metal leaf is quite labor intensive. The original surface of the canvas or panel is covered with an abstract, multi-colored acrylic underpainting. After preparing this painted surface with leaf-sizing, individual 5 x 5” squares of tissue-thin metal leaves are carefully applied. Imperfections called “holidays,” are encouraged in order to the let the colorful underpainting show through. A graphite drawing is added to the surface of the canvas. Because the metal leaf is extremely slick, the application of oil paint requires a skilled hand to accomplish and extended drying time between painting sessions.