Do you have change for a denarius?

Inspired by my trip to Rome in the summer of 56BC (I mean 2007), these authentic broom handle headdresses are worn by none other than fake Roman soldiers that lurk outside the Colosseum!

This scene provided a perfect opportunity for me to explore an expanse of red not often seen in nature. For over 2 weeks I continued to layer the colour until I achieved the ideal hue and saturation. Included in the creation were madder, crimson and carmine red pencils, echoing the same colour dyes the Romans used.

As I do with many of my pieces, I intentionally excluded the background e.g. the Colosseum, ancient ruins and gelato stands, allowing the viewer to be in any time or place and surmise the conversation within the main subject.

I never heard what these gentlemen were saying. Maybe they were strategizing their next conquest. As the title suggests, possibly they needed spare change for a Coke. Or perhaps they are speculating why Julius Caesar keeps Instagramming his salad!

This piece reminds me of my 20s and fun. It reminds me that ananas means pineapple and that togas should be left in the 1st century.

The meticulous detail and vivid colour in this piece would look remarkable on any wall or amphitheatre in your home!

- Roman legionnaires can be sent to your door now!
- Striking colour pencil work
- Perfect for any space - dimensions 42 x 59.4cm (A2)
- Professional artist grade colour pencils and paper
- Certificate of Authenticity and maintenance information included with delivery
- Unframed

Check out the YouTube video link to see some time-lapse footage of the drawing in progress.

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“I choose my subjects like I choose my food: I’ll have a little of everything”

Candace is a drawing artist living on Australia’s Gold Coast. She is best known for her diverse subjects and detailed works that catch the eye. Primarily working with colour pencil and graphite, Candace specialises in expressing realism through her technique.

Her art’s ability to capture realistic detail and captivate and move emotions resulted in her piece ‘This is not a drill’ being announced the winner of the 2020 Art Lovers Australia Prize.

Candace’s work is often inspired by something offbeat, situations of everyday life or from her travels. Some pieces tell a clear story, others allow the viewer to derive their own meaning and connection. Being unencumbered by set themes and subjects allows her to create something truly unique to the occasion.

She has been told she is “down-to-earth” in her creative approach and talents. She welcomes the description as she firmly believes art skills are attainable by anyone. “It takes dedication, hard work and practice, rather than wishful thinking and an artsy-fartsy smock!”

** Available for commission work **