Lily Gator developed as a natural extension of the skull an botanical motif that I have explored in previous paintings such as Carnivora Floret.
After visiting Florida, I was inspired by the reptiles constant presence around ponds and other bodies of water. Curiosity of what happens to the animals skeletons after death conjured images of an alabaster alligator skull slowly decaying into the lily pad foliage that dots the surface of the water.
I used a traditional oil painting technique for this piece, beginning with many layers of burnt sienna, followed by light color washes. The painting style enabled me to achieve a high level of detail while additionally highlighting the subtly light filtering that occurs through the water's surface.