Moon Minders – Full Moon 

Michael Parkes made this painting, Moon Minders – Full Moon, using traditional techniques. Look closely, and you’ll see that Parkes employed a glazing method, meticulously layering thin washes of oil paint to achieve a luminous effect. The smoothness of the moon’s face and the attendant figure are achieved through this labor-intensive process, where each layer of paint is allowed to dry before the next is applied. The result isn’t just a picture, but a carefully constructed surface, where light interacts in complex ways. Parkes’ technique invites questions about the labor involved in making art. In a world dominated by mass production, the slow and deliberate process of oil painting stands out. It’s a reminder that some things still require time, patience, and highly skilled craftsmanship. So, next time you encounter a work of art like this, think about the materials, the making, and the context that gives it meaning. It can challenge how we distinguish between fine art and craft.