Exploring a Lost Medium

In 1984, David Dolan began experimenting with nitrocellulose lacquer pigments, attempting to control the exceptionally unique qualities this uncooperative medium possessed.  Years of trial and error resulted in the development of many innovative application techniques.  With unyielding persistence control developed and David’s artwork gradually evolved into a truly unique art form, all his own.

In 1998, the EPA implemented mandatory changes to the chemical formulation of nitrocellulose lacquer. While being beneficial to the environment, the medium would never be the same, and the unique attributes were never able to be reproduced. David continued to paint on a limited basis until 2009, when his stockpile of paint ran out. It seems likely that works such as these may never be produced again.