Girl in White 

Mark Arian painted 'Girl in White' using traditional oil paints, applying them with brushes onto what appears to be a finely woven canvas. What strikes me is how Arian manipulates the oil paint to create a sense of light and atmosphere. The brushstrokes are visible, particularly in the background, lending an impressionistic feel to the piece. The texture of the canvas also plays a role, subtly influencing the way the paint sits on the surface. Oil paint, of course, has a long history, prized for its capacity to render realistic textures, tones, and colours. Here, Arian has used this tradition to create a portrait that is both timeless and contemporary. It is also worth considering the labor involved in creating such a work. From preparing the canvas, to mixing the paints, to the act of painting itself, it all requires a significant amount of time and skill. Appreciating the material processes involved allows us to look beyond the surface and understand its deeper cultural significance.