Genesis and workable fixatives

Sandy Barnes · 09-08-2002, 06:04 AM

I have a canvas primed and ready to start my first Genesis painting. I am wondering, after sketching my subject, can I spray a workable fixative over it?

Linda Ciallelo · 09-19-2002, 05:33 PM

Sandy, some artists do exactly that, and then cover with a thin layer of damar mixed with an earth color (like Indian Red). I have done this with a small pastel drawing, but haven't tried it on canvas yet. They say that you should use retouch varnish to fix the drawing, but I believe that retouch varnish (damar+turps) will cause the drawing to melt, unless you use fixative first.

I know that I read that Bouguereau fixed his drawings on his canvases, but I'm not sure what he fixed them with. I know that Grumbacher workable fixative works well, but I'm not sure for how many years. I have a drawing done like that, that has lasted seven years without a problem.

Sandy Barnes · 09-19-2002, 06:01 PM

Thanks for the reply Linda. Actually, I was referring to fixatives under Genesis heat set oil paints. Apparently it doesn't mix with anything and I wondered if any Genesis painters had used them together.

Karin Wells · 10-26-2002, 05:01 PM

Do NOT use any kind of fixative under Genesis brand paints. It is OK to paint directly over your drawing - even if it is in pencil (a "no no" when you use traditional oils).

Also, do NOT use any non-Genesis products over your finished work. Genesis is not chemically compatible with other products.

Sandy Barnes · 10-28-2002, 06:39 AM

Thank you Karin. I had a hunch that was the case, but no harm in asking.