Wood Grain is my Muse.  I selected this piece of Ash for the beauty and movement of the grain, and then allow the grain to inspire my composition for the painting.   I use metal paints which develop color from rusting and oxidation when I add patina chemicals. This rust pattern developed such a vibrant color that I chose to accentuate it with a dark background.  I rubbed powedered graphite into the wood, which still shows the grain, and also gives a contrasting smooth, metalic finish.