Repurposing a Canvas

This piece goes over the process of prepping and reusing an existing canvas for artwork. The canvas was originally used for a group painting class. Gesso can be applied over an existing painting to give it a blank face ready for new art.

Toning a Canvas

An acrylic colored wash is applied to a gessoed board to give the canvas a different tone. A wide and wet brush is used to cover the canvas quickly. The brown color used here will help make lighter values like white have more contrast on the background.

Self Portrait

This "work in process" of a self portrait illustrates the value of toning a canvas. Bright whites and skin tones stand out on the colored background. A small brush is needed for the finer details like painting the eye.

Abstract Colors

A pallet knife can be used to mix paint and also apply paint with thick opacity. This piece is a "work in progress" of an abstract color study.

Pointillism

Not every painting uses traditional brushes or tools. For pointillism, cotton Q-Tips are used to make repeatable marks with clean colors. This picture comes together when enough dots are layered together. The subject of the "work in progress" is off the shore of Puerto Rico. 

Cats: Elaine and Mike

This almost complete "work in progress" is about fine details. Individual hair or fur can be painted with the right brush. A thin liner brush can paint any size hair or fur. 

The Tools

This "work in progress" has some mistakes that need wiping away. Paper towels with mineral spirits can do the job to make sure the painting is as clean as the tools. The tools held here were all used in making of this series.