The new painting will measure 2 metres high x 4.5 metres wide and none of my studios are big enough to accommodate it. But by widening and heightening two doorways in the studio at No 22 we should be able to get a clear run. Even the position of the light switches has to be altered.

The three panels each measure 2 x 1.5 metres and are constructed of marine ply on 2 x 2 frame. We cover them in canvas glued to the surface with pva which is then glued and tacked to the back frame. Because the painting will be in a busy reception area of the College it needs to be on a robust support; the canvas gives an attractive and lively surface to paint. In medieval panel paintings the timber support would often be covered in layers of fine linen. The canvas is primed with four coats of gesso which is nowadays made from acrylic polymers and finely ground marble dust for strength and flexibility.