Rachael Grad

Mommy Mayhem: Elephant Resting Landcape

Measuring 8 x 5 feet, this large oil on canvas painting depicts an abstract version of a favourite stuffed toy elephant. My abstracted elephant paintings are based on loose, gestural sketches of the same stuffed toy elephant in different positions. I have painted and sketched this particular stuffed animal from life on many occasions so am familiar with its shapes and forms. I initially paint the forms of the toy elephant, then push the image further into abstraction. In the painting process. I work to alter the forms, light, colour saturation, and depth of space in the paintings.

“The bright, vibrant colours are pulled from children’s toys, crafts, books, clothing and are layered over multiple painting sessions. The playful abstracted representational imagery echoes the mayhem of motherhood.”