Peaches for Tea original mixed media painting by Polly Jones

Peaches for Tea by Polly Jones

detail for Peaches for Tea

12" by 12" acrylic and mixed media painting SOLD  Here I used one of my vintage tablecloths as a backdrop for the blue willow pieces.  Someone asked how I incorporate the collaged paper elements into my painting.  I use non-yellowing acrylic medium on the back of the paper and on top to protect it, with a final coat of protective varnish when finished.

I have a stash of papers from my favorite sources: maps from books or old traveling guides,  a huge old dictionary, and a set of vintage Little Golden Encyclopedia books.  I choose bits and pieces because of their color and also their words.  Sometimes I choose randomly because its so fun to see what unexpected associations result.  I like the idea of other people coming up with their own meanings.  Seems like a huge part of being human involves a need to make sense out of what we see and experience.