To fix or not, that is the question. And it’s a question that keeps coming around again and again. So let’s look at some answers.
Recently, I ran a series of articles answering this very question: to fix or not. I put the question to Advisory Board members – did they or did they not use fixative and if they did, how did they use it? So I’m going to do a roundup of those articles here so that you can have all their answers in one place!
In the first article, four advisory Board members shared their take on whether to fix or not. You may be surprised at their answers! Check out their responses.
In the next one, Felicity House explained the one instance she will use fixative. It makes sense but I hadn’t thought of doing this! Curious? Then have a read!
Next up we have Nancie King Mertz. She uses fixative to wet the darks and “brush them around in a painterly manner.” A very different use. Check out the progression photos for the final painting.
And the last in the series is Emma Colbert offering her thoughts on this question of whether to fix or not. This will be helpful.
I hope all these articles give you some direction as to when to fix or not. I think it’s really a personal choice. Why not experiment and see what works for you?
Also, speak to your framer. Some framers are happy framing unfixed paintings, others not so much. You are in partnership with your framer so see what works for you both!
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Some thoughts from my framer about fixative (and more!)
I created two videos with my framer all about framing pastels. Below is the one where we talk about, among other things, FIXATIVE!! I think you’ll find the info really useful (and not just the fixative part!).
And that’s it for this time!
Gail
