Oil, acrylic and faux gold leaf on wood panel

111x90cm

The intention behind Midnight Recliner was to experiment with different applications of gold leaf. It is exploration on how a figure can interact within a confined space. Inspiration was drawn from Gothic architecture, particularly its windows as well as the compositions of old Byzantine art. Inside this window, the figure stretches her hands beyond the space she occupies. Clulow’s intention was to push against the two-dimensional boundaries typical of their ornamental paintings, giving the figure more character. The figure’s pose reflects the title Midnight Recliner. "Recliner" refers to her reclining pose across the ground and beyond the window frame, while "Midnight" alludes to the deep blue surrounding her, with the gold leaf representing the full moon and stars. This piece was meant to evoke a dark, sensual but morbid atmosphere, reflecting the sometimes isolating but uniquely introspective feeling one experiences late at night.