Watermelon Invasion by Joke Frima

"All of the elements in my painting The Watermelon Invasion grew in my garden: the funny little watermelons, the crazy big zucchini and the shriveled butternut squash. The vegetables seem to be marching forward under an arch like an alien army. I like painting still lives because it allows me to paint from life. The objects can be arranged directly in front of me on the table. I try to avoid using typical still life objects. Although vegetables may be a traditional subject, I like to think my composition is related to the present day. My painting process is "alla prima." I do not use oil or medium, only the oil that is already present in the paint. Before I start painting, I make a solid drawing which serves as a skeleton to build upon. Not every detail is planned and decided in advance. There is room to play with the elements. This can be done with freedom and can be playful and inventive. I love texture. In this painting I had some fun with the freshly cut wooden board in the foreground." – JOKE FRIMA