Shine (2020)
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Oil, wood, resin
36.5 x 48.5 in
 
Rising toward the warmth of the sun, and radiating energy, the figure in this image is an inspirational depiction of life at its best, when the truest self is attained and expressed without inhibition. 
 
Shine is one of four in a series called the Sratalux Paintings, meaning "layers of light." These paintings were inspired by the technique Ruben developed to paint his carvings. 
 
I start with a textured surface that I paint with oil paints, once the paint has dried I flood the surface with a layer of artist quality resin. After the resin cures, I sand the surface and add the next layer of paint and again flood the surface with resin. I repeat this process as many times as necessary adding layers of resin as needed. The final result gives the painting depth and a more dimensional feel, and then a final layer of resin gives the artwork a glassy finish. This process is something that I developed in my art studio and am planning on creating many new paintings exploring the possibilities of this new technique.
- Ruben Aira Jr.