Behind the Canvas: My Painting Process
Ever wonder what goes into a painting before it reaches your home? Here is a peek inside my Mumbai studio, from the initial pencil sketch to the final brushstroke of your custom piece.
This time-lapse video shows the underpainting process for my Venice canal scene. This first step is crucial for establishing the composition and tonal values of the final piece.
Part two of the Venice underpainting process. Here, I explain how I use a thin layer of oils to build a warm foundation that will subtly influence the final colors of the painting.
Building the brick wall one stroke at a time. This work-in-progress shot of the Venice painting shows the first layer of color being applied over the underpainting.
A repost of the Venice painting after applying the first layer of thick paint. I can't wait to show you how this piece transforms with more detail.
The underpainting for a large floral piece is in progress. This monochromatic layer helps me define the shapes and shadows of the petals before I begin adding color.
The very beginning of something big. This is the initial pencil sketch on a large, toned canvas for my first floral painting of 2020.
Here I am working on the monochrome underpainting of a giant bloom. I like to spend time with this stage before mixing my color palette for the final layers.
Making progress on this giant floral painting. The background colors are starting to come in, making the central bloom pop.
Slowly making my way through this giant, complicated floral painting. It's all about patience and adding one brushstroke at a time.
Me with my finished magnolia blossom painting. I love how the soft, delicate flowers stand out against the textured blue background.
About The Creative Process
Before I ever pick up a bright color, I start with an underpainting. It is the crucial first layer—usually in monochrome—that lets me map out the composition, light, and shadows. This step is where I fix the bones of your painting, ensuring that when the final layers of oil or acrylic go on, the anatomy, perspective, and emotion are exactly right. It is the part of the work you do not usually see, but it is the reason the final piece feels so alive.
How I Build Your Painting
Creating a piece of art is rarely just about the final image. For me, it is a journey from our first conversation to the moment you hang the canvas on your wall.
1. The Consultation & Vision We start by talking about what you want to feel when you look at the painting. Whether it is a spiritual piece, a portrait, or a landscape, I need to understand the emotion you are looking for. We will discuss color palettes, your interior decor, and the story you want the painting to tell.
2. The Sketch & Composition I never jump straight onto the canvas. I prepare sketches and digital mockups so we are on the same page. This prevents wasted time and ensures the scale of the artwork fits perfectly on your specific wall.
3. The Underpainting (The Foundation) As I mentioned, this is the most important technical step. Using thin oils or acrylics, I block in the darks and lights. This is not the pretty part, but it is the most vital. It creates the depth and the contrast that makes the final painting pop.
4. Layering & Detail This is where the magic happens. I apply layers of paint, letting them dry and building up the textures. If I am painting a portrait, this is where I focus on micro-expressions. If it is a floral piece, I focus on the translucency of the petals using my palette knife. I will send you 2-3 work-in-progress photos during this phase so you can see your story take shape.
5. Protection & Delivery Once the painting is finished, I apply a high-quality varnish to protect it from dust and UV light. I install the hanging hardware myself, and your piece is packed securely with acid-free paper, ready to be shipped from my studio to your home.
Flourish Art by Palak Mehta
Hi, I am Palak. I am a painter based here in Mumbai, and my studio is where I spend most of my days—often with paint on my hands and maybe a toddler roaming nearby. I do not just paint pretty pictures; I obsess over the details to make sure what lands on your wall tells a real story.
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