Princess of Mars 

Michael Hayes’ ‘Princess of Mars’ from the 20th century, is an oil painting. The artist’s chosen medium is one of the oldest, where dry pigment is mixed with oil, usually linseed, to create a paste which when applied to a surface dries slowly, allowing the artist to rework the image. Hayes demonstrates the versatility of this medium with detailed brushwork, creating texture and movement. This is evident in the Princess's hair, which is painted with a high degree of realism. The artist has used the fluidity of the oil paint to model the muscles in the Princess's body, and the texture of the ruined architecture of the Martian landscape. Oil paintings require time and skill and have long been associated with the traditional fine arts and high culture. The labor-intensive process of oil painting contrasts with industrial production methods, reminding us of the value placed on individual skill and craftsmanship, as well as the rich traditions of this art form.