Very delighted to find, practically on my own doorstep, a gilding and artists' suppliers which I didn't know about. It is in a little industrial place five minutes away. Handover. A real ramshackle cornucopia of enticing materials.
I went there to investigate gilding for the bottles, and basically came up with the solution I already have. I didn't realise the leaf was going to be so affordable, so I have plenty to try out what works best - aluminium leaf in two grades, and silver leaf. Actually so far the standard aluminium looks the best in its reflective values. so more or less, bar exactly choosing the images, actually making and finishing off the bottles, I know what Vessels is to be, and how I will do it.
I am also looking at size and fixative. The bottles will not be handled particularly, but I may as well anticipate difficulties. The Gallery of Wonder may put lights on in the cabinet which could cause the leaf to uncurl. I'll test all these conditions out where practical.
I got in touch with the West Highland Museum to ask if I can use their image of the secret portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie in my exhibition materials. I suggested they might like to show Vessels next to their exhibit. You never know. May as well ask. This is something I will follow through when the piece is made.
It's funny how when you are looking for something to turn up, perhaps in charity shops, etc, they are either everywhere or nowhere. At the moment interesting and suitable glass bottles are elusive. I saw a couple of lovely examples in Whitstable at the weekend, but couldn't bring myself to get ones which I would only ruin by removing their antique labels for artistic purposes.
I think I will probably cut up and use original photographs for the portraits rather than using prints or copies. It's something about the real thing, the authenticity, the individuality and worth.
30th March 2011
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