In November 2005 W J Martin went to La Porte Texas to study the Flemish method in the Old Masters technique. He studied with Johnnie Liliedahl who is famous for her instruction as well as her own creations. The roots of the Flemish style go back to the Renaissance with Raphael, Rubens, Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Dyke as well-known practitioners of this method. It is based on the use of the bistre, or brownish, transparent under painting to establish the value or tonal range of the subject. In the hands of the masters listed above, it provided a subtle, warm neutral base as a foil for the brilliant color of Vermeer, the bravura brushwork of Rembrandt, and the sumptuous flesh tones of Raphael and Rubens. The painting under the "Narrative" link is a result of this experience.