End of Hope and Glory

"Inspired" that apparently, here in the UK, we are getting on for something like 1000% debt to GDP (combined government and people). I thought that the USA getting to 100% was a nightmare (if you take a look at my "Money Mare" painting finished on Halloween 2011).

I wonder what we will have look forward to in the New Years yet to come.


For this painting I have in mind something near a negative of the UK flag, the "Union Jack" so that is what I will begin with. I also want to represent the constant too & fro between the left and right political parties who seem to endlessly get in power and reverse what the previous lot did. In theory the change between left and right policies should even out and steer us towards a balanced and sensible future but it seems that the wheels have come off that aspect of what ought be the way to go.

I am starting with two canvas squares that I have taped together while I paint them. I will end up with 2 paintings that go together.

 The drawing is completed above in pencil...

 Now, above I have filled in what would be white as black.

 Above I have completed what should be red as blue/green and I have opened the gap between the 2 canvas squares so the paint does not stick as it dries.

Above we have the first layer complete with a sun set where it would be blue.

Tomorrow, depending on how my head feels after the New Year partying, I plan to add a new layer.