Exploring a Lost Medium
David Dolan is an American artist best known for his pioneering work with a formulation of nitrocellulose lacquer that is no longer available.
After environmental regulations changed the chemical formulation of lacquer in 1998, the exact materials used were no longer available, making his original technique effectively a “Lost Medium.”
His body of work occupies unclaimed unique territory in the world of art.
He worked in isolation without influence or reference from 1985 until 2009.
The remarkable properties of his work became noticed by collectors and has been shipped around the world.
While no longer selling publicly he retains a substantial personal collection available privately.
See amazing products and images created with artificial intelligence from my past work by clicking on the link below:
TheMaterials
The one of a kind paintings were done on the surface of ¼ inch tempered board which is extremely durable and non-porous. The raw pigments David used to make the medium are the same as those used to make conventional oil paint, and have the same color-fast qualities. The difference is in the binders and solvents he used. At no time were non-compatible chemical reactions used to achieve special effects. This was to assure the permanence and longevity of the paintings. Clear topcoats that can yellow and discolor over time were never used. Gloss enhancer was used within the pigments to achieve the desired intensity. The complex layering process yields a unique depth of color that transforms into three dimensional effects that are exceptionally impacted by changes in lighting.
This was an inherently volatile and flammable medium. The studio was in an industrial area and was ventilated in much the same way as an automobile spray booth would be. Protection needed to be worn at all times and an elaborate respiration system was a necessity.
