The key to this image is providing the sensation of texture - you know what rough wood feels like, you know what painted wood feels like, so it was essential that I get these wood surfaces absolutely right so that the tactile information you get from your eyes rings true. The goal was to have people feel like they could step right into this scene.
I used abstract art painting techniques for the surface of the boxes, particularly on the green one, to give the weathered appearance I wanted. Lighting is from the lower right, set with enough intensity to create the crisp, interesting shadows on the back wall.
I sold the original painting of Day at the Races to a woman whose father used to take her to the races as a child. He’d say to her: “Let’s have a day at the races!” I can’t tell you how heartwarming it feels to be able to trigger a happy memory in someone with my work.
I was pleased to see that others appreciated Day at the Races, too. It was a national finalist in the Still Life category at the Art Renewal Center 2013-2014 International ARC Salon.