Paul Edmund Herman - Study in Refracted Light - Oil On Canvas NO RESERVE (XXL Large Format)

TITLE: Study in Refracted Light (XXL Large Format)

THE WORK: DISSOLUTION & SCALE "Study in Refracted Light" is a monumental work (1.52 x 1.10 meters) that functions both as a rigorous painterly investigation and a major architectural centerpiece.

While the painting is conceptually driven—exploring the physics of light and the dissolution of form underwater—its physical scale was conceived with specific spatial intent. The 152 cm width is calibrated to serve as a commanding visual anchor in a main living space, creating an immediate focal point above a large sofa, master bed, or in a formal dining room.

The treatment of light here is structural, not merely decorative. The "caustics" (the net of refracted sunlight) are not draped randomly; they are painted with anatomical sensitivity, grading from brilliant white to subdued transparent tones as they stretch across the volume of the shoulder and back. This careful observation of light wrapping around form gives the figure a sculptural weight even as it dissolves into the blue.

THE TECHNIQUE: 100% FREEHAND (NO OPTICAL AIDS) In a contemporary art market increasingly reliant on mechanical shortcuts—where projectors, photo-transfers, and digital tracing are the norm—Dr. Herman adheres to the unmediated discipline of direct painting.

The "Beholder's Share": The brushwork is designed for two distinct viewing distances. From the standard viewing distance (across the room), the image coalesces into a tight, almost photorealistic reality. However, upon closer inspection, the image deconstructs into bold, expressive brushstrokes. This technique engages what art historians call "The Beholder’s Share"—inviting the viewer's brain to actively participate in "finishing" the image, creating a sense of vibration and life that a perfectly smooth digital print lacks.

No Projections: This work was constructed entirely by eye. There is no underlying mechanical grid or projected image.

The "Human" Line: By rejecting optical aids, the painting retains the "nervous system" of the artist. Every distortion in the water is a result of judgment and impulse, ensuring the work possesses a tension that "fill-in-the-lines" execution cannot achieve.

THE ARTIST: PEDIGREE & RESEARCH Dr. Paul Edmund Herman (b. Los Angeles) is a dual-national (US/UK) painter and doctoral researcher at the University of Seville. His practice bridges the technical severity of the Spanish Golden Age with a modern, cinematic isolation.

Collections: Works held in private collections across the US, UK, Japan, and the EU.

Current Residency: Doctoral research in Fine Arts, Seville, Spain.

SPECIFICATIONS

Dimensions: 152 x 110 cm (Total Painted Surface)

Medium: Professional-grade Oil on Canvas.

Condition: New, directly from the artist's studio.

Includes a hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity.

SHIPPING & FRAMING (XXL FORMAT) To ensure the safety of this large-scale work during international transit, the canvas is shipped rolled in a heavy-duty architectural tube. This method allows for safer transport and significantly lower shipping costs.

Important Note on Framing Dimensions: This canvas is painted edge-to-edge (full bleed), offering the collector two distinct display choices:

Mounting on Board: If mounted flat onto a rigid backing board, you will preserve the full 152 x 110 cm visible image.

Stretcher Bars (Gallery Wrap): If stretched over traditional wooden bars, the outer edges of the painted image will wrap around the sides (losing approximately 2-3 cm of visible width per side). The composition has been specifically designed with this in mind—the central subject is framed so that wrapping the edges will not harm the integrity of the image.