'Watch Me'

A commission came in from Build Hollywood Publishing House.

They asked if I could recreate a book cover, scaling it up to an A1 painting.

The book: 'Watch Me' by Tahereh Mafi.

The plan was to work on the canvas for a few days at home, saving the details of the central eye to paint in store at Waterstones, Piccaddilly Circus. The reason for painting Live in store (August 6th) was to coincide with a promotional event for said book.

I particularly enjoyed this task. I remember as a kid, getting an activity books from the local news agents as a treat. My favourite puzzle was a half complete image, with a grid over the top & you complete it by mirroring what's been given to you.

A random thing to think about! But copying preexisting artwork feels like an exquisit game of spot the difference.

So I started the painting at home in my studio, waiting for night to fall in order to utilise a projector. Scaling up correctly is crucial if this is going to work.

Story time, I haven't used this projector in over ten years; I got it out, dusted it off and was surprised that the bulb still worked.

I did however, think that my eye sight had worsened considerably since last using it. The dark room and hazy projection had me squinting. I got it all lined up and was about to pencil the design onto the canvas, when BANG! The bulb popped.

It being late, I was lucky to find a replacement from my desk lamp and popped it into the projector. IT WASN'T my eyes that were failing, it was an old bulb! HAHA

The projection now looked crisp and clear! I am so glad the bulb popped, and relieved my eye sight is ok :)

Three days painting later, 80% of the painting is finished. Build Hollywood sent a courier to collect the artwork ahead of the event. They planned to add the book text to the canvas (digitally printed) and then set up the canvas for me to complete in store.

The next day, I travel into central London and find my way to the Waterstones store. It's massive. I'm directed to the 2nd floor. It's already busy and as I set up, queues form around the entire floor.

This book series is highly anticipated it seems! Unfortunately it was a super hot day and everyone was getting a tad sweaty; despite that everyone waited with smiles & patience! I enjoyed chatting to people whilst I painted.

I finished the eye details that remained between 2- 5pm, it went so fast! I had to paint like mad. I realise now how time loses it's meaning when I get into painting, it's not usually on the clock. A successful day. The client was super happy with the painting and looked after me well during the event. Perhaps there will be similar commissions in future, I hope so :)

Thank you Build Hollywood!

Original artwork by Alexis Franklin

Book Series by Tahereh Mafi

& Here's a video of the painting process! Thanks for looking X