This is such an enchanting image.  And so rich with history, poetry, texture, color, and light.  This original painting is both timeless and warn as well as contemporary and new.  It is highly textured with active brush strokes and some unique, eye-catching, old time corners.  I found a rubber stamp probably intended for use in some interior decorating capacity and instead of using it to paint, I used it to add the sculptural corners that make this piece so exciting.  I pressed the stamp into a layer of acrylic modeling paste and lifted up adding a bas-relief feel to the painting.  Additionally, I scratched into the surface with a dental tool and also used an ice scraper to remove the texture in the box where the heart is.  Oldest Trick is a gorgeous comment on the power of love that is certain to add a warm glow to any home or work space.

This image also continues my interest in the subtle inclusion of language in art with three phrases painted in tiny letters, each in a separate place on the canvas.  They read...

"Did some pained soul cast a bitter spell on you?  Love them."

"Your ex?  Your boss?  Your in-laws?  Love them."

"Love is the oldest trick and love never fails."

Oldest Trick was painted primarily with rich Cadmium reds and deep luscious burgundies on a stretched canvas with staple free sides.  Paint was applied with brushes, my fingers, and soft rags.  The color was build up over numerous transparent layers. 

The sides were painted black allowing you to display this beautiful piece unframed if you like.  Or, it can be affordably framed since it does not require glass or matting.