A peek at my studio and newest work

I started this piece early last week. It is a large 48 x 36″ canvas. I began by sketching the figures directly onto the canvas with vine charcoal. Once I achieve a general composition I am happy with, I start collaging items onto the canvas or wood panel. Most of the items used in the collage are late 1800 early 1900 postcards, maps, and magazine cutouts. They are applied to the surface with an acrylic gel medium (matte) Once the surface is covered with the collaged pieces and dried, I work over it with oil paint, adding color and detail.