Life Giver No.1
"Life Giver No. 1" at Hoo Gallery is a groundbreaking piece by artist Dharshi de Silva that marks the launch of her upcoming solo show at A.K. Bellinger Gallery in Spring 2025. The artwork portrays a tree that has died and lost its spirit, yet remains committed to being a life giver to the universe.
This eco-print painting on canvas measures an impressive 1280 x 1380 mm. It is created using steam-printed crepe myrtle flowers and tansy leaves, along with crushed pastel pigments, and is enhanced with charcoal and soft pastels.
Our family-run gallery, founded in 2019, takes pride in showcasing unique and environmentally conscious artwork to our patrons. Make an appointment today to visit Hoo Gallery in person to experience the beauty and detail of "Life Giver No. 1" and explore the rest of this profoundly meaningful series of artworks by Dharshi.
Caring for your Eco Print and or Eco Dye Painting
Please note that for the protection of the paintings, each piece is sealed with multiple layers of artist-quality matte fixative. Given the texture of the cotton canvas used and the fixative, rest assured that the soft pastel pigment will last for generations.
As with any fine art, utmost care must be taken when handling, displaying, and storing the artwork. Please avoid displaying or storing the pieces in direct sunlight or very humid conditions. When displayed, place the artwork in indirect sunlight and keep the humidity low in tropical climates whenever possible to ensure the best conservation practices. Additionally, if storing or transporting artworks, ensure they are not kept in very humid environments for extended periods.
Dharshi avoids using fugitive pigments when possible. However, if a fugitive pigment is used, which may fade slightly over time, this is considered part of the overall message and living quality of the artwork. The message, authenticity, and overall visual identity of the piece will not diminish as a result of any fading of fugitive pigments.
Please note that eco prints and dyes are known to fade primarily when exposed to variations in pH, typically occurring when the cloth is washed over time. However, since these works are on stretched canvases, this issue will not occur with eco print paintings.
How to care for your Art work
An eco-print painting does not fade as long as you treat it like a watercolour painting. It is essential to keep it away from direct sunlight and maintain low humidity in the room. Using an LED spotlight to illuminate the canvas is best, as extended exposure to fluorescent lighting can fade the colours. Additionally, the paintings are treated with several layers of art-grade matte fixative, which helps protect them. However, like with any fine art, it is advisable not to touch the canvas unless absolutely necessary.