The figure in this painting came from the Elgin Marbles frieze sculpture of Nike tying her lace. I have always loved this figure for its drapery and casual action in regard to the removal/ or tying of a sandal. I also wanted to paint fish, the gills and eyes, the shininess of the skin. I always try to include some element in my painting that is primordial like fish or the sea, or something that is ancient like the garden. I also wanted to paint drapery and base them on contemporary dress and shoes, something recognizable today, but familiar from the past in form.