Red House 1995

Peter Doig created this painting, Red House, using traditional materials like paint and canvas. However, his technique infuses it with a unique quality. Doig's application of paint is far from conventional. Look closely and you'll notice how he builds up layers, almost like a collage. This creates a textured surface that invites the viewer to explore the dreamlike imagery. The way Doig applies the paint, with its drips and subtle textures, adds a tactile dimension, and the use of traditional materials is elevated. Doig skillfully blends fine art with elements of craft, using traditional oil paint to achieve unusual effects. The act of painting itself becomes a craft, transforming ordinary materials into an extraordinary visual experience. This approach challenges the traditional hierarchy between art and craft. It reminds us that the true essence of art lies not just in the subject matter, but also in the artist's ability to transform materials through process.