Bluethumb 2019 Top Selling Artist. Painted on pages from a 1936 Vintage copy of the book 'Wagons Westward' is this stunning appaloosa war horse! Red, orange, green, blue, white, brown and black acrylics, oils and inks!
These beautiful pieces ("Bookclubs" as I call them) have a classy or subject relative vibe to them created by the subject matter of the base. They are either produced on (mostly) old vintage or destructed books (I have assembled a large collection) or vintage comics....classic, yet totally modern. Pop based, often with a with a touch of realism rather than pure Pop art styling.
I often use newly famous novels such as Fifty Shades or Memoires of a Geisha (which I will destructure) thru to books that can be over 100 years old and will feature cover pages and written pages that show their own history. I have seen some gorgeous things over the years inside vintage books as many are from the olden days when a book was a cherished birthday or Christmas present. I will sometimes chose a book that has a similar theme to the subject matter, but sometimes will chose something contrasting. Each piece will have texturing where the subject is. Pages also go over the edges to create a gallery finish that doesnt require framing or more cost to you.
These days many artists claim painting on books, or painting book covers is their own invented style....its not. Books have been used as subject matter by some artists for over 50 or 60 years, including replications of Penguin Book covers and spines. I initially started painting on Book bases and Comics after seeing a gorgeous huge, tree piece on book pages by US artist Raine Bedsole in the original Twilight movie in 2008 (Yes I did watch that LOL). As with much art and things in popular culture, its remixed and reformed into something new based on ones own style. Homage to all those that have come before me and contune to use and paint books. It makes for a wonderfully interesting base, adding to the narrative and interest of the subject matter.....and in some weird way replenishes this loved past time of reading.
These pieces arrive stretched on a quality 40mm frame wrapped in linen, with a gloss coat of varnish and gallery finished edges. I take my depth of canvas to a different level believing a canvas has 5 sides and should be painted and finished as such. Did I mention I love commissions? So, if you would like a similar piece to this one, different sizes, colours formats etc, just hit me up! I’d love to hear what you have in mind.
I have been a full-time artist for 10 years now and feel blessed that I can do this wonderful thing for a job. In that time, I have now sold over 5000 pieces globally, with pieces in collections in some 30 countries...and of course most of them have been at the larger end of the scale.
My spunky wife Wendy is CFO and runs a lot of the “day to days” including logistics, leaving me to answer enquiries and do that other important part.....painting!
Finishing:
Most of my paintings arrive ready to hang. I do recommend that the really really big ones, some of the heavier pieces and some of the specialist pieces, such as pallets be installed by a professional hanger. This is cheaper than you may think and would be in the $150 to $250 range. I have partners in most areas that I can recommend if you need help. If you would like more information, just ask away. Wendy & I want to make it as easy as possible for you.
Freight and delivery:
Global shipping is included in the listed prices however, if you happened to be in an extremely remote area, we may put our hand up and ask for a little bit of monetary assistance. We package the paintings securely in twin walled, reinforced, CUSTOM MADE “Franko” cartons, with additional protective inserts & of course the painting is wrapped in bubble wrap for rub protection. Wendy & I are the consummate professionals in all that we do. Our trusted freight partners are TNT, Fastway and DHL. Often with larger pieces and local deliveries, we arrange direct delivery with our own driver.
Insurance:
All paintings are sent fully insured.
Finally, all works come with a Certificate of Authenticity and free hugs and kisses!
Happy Trails!
Franko