This month has had me doing experimental art using different kinds of texture with paints, photo transfers, egg shells, book boxes, altered books, and tissue paper. I've found that it has been keeping me inspired by just keeping active in these new ways of adding great texture onto my boxes or canvas for painting. Mixed-media has always been a big exitement for me when it comes to art. I'm happy to share a few pics of one of my texture processes here, and soon I will have a new presentation made for Allied Arts annual RARE event during April's Art Walk (art walk in Bellingham is always the first Friday of the month), on April 5th & 6th.
First, I had to crack open a dozen eggs, let the shells soak in room temperature water for about 30 minutes. Using my finger-tips, I carefully rubbed out the inside layer from the egg whites. Once dry, they were ready to place on the surface area.
How to make an egg-shell texture; it can look like leather or fun scales.
This picture is showing the 2nd stage of adding egg shells onto the book box using Mod Podge matte glue on top of a primed book box. I found it to be time consuming and delicate to add the shells one at a time by cracking them onto the glued surface. I knew I would enjoy the results after this is finished. So I just stuck to it and added them to the font and back of the book box. Honestly, this was done by feel and through experiment to see how much would stick to the glue, while allowing some small space inbetween each cracked shell.
After it completely dried, I added the layers of paint. I used a red and I will add a brown top coat later.
As you can see, when using a bright color like red, it will show every angle and crevice of the rough texture, so I've had to add 4-5 layers of red before I go to the next step.
Finally, I've added the light layer of brown on top of the red.
I really like the results. I am not done with this book though. I have to add the title in the center of the oval, on the binding, and make the interrior into something interesting. This project holds a calling to my inner-sci-fi-geek. I can't wait for it to be finished so I can share with everyone!
The next blog will show you how I used tissue paper onto an altered book to make it look textured. I also think it could look something like leather or fabric. There's so many fun ways to change your looks on surfaces!
The next blog will show you how I used tissue paper onto an altered book to make it look textured. I also think it could look something like leather or fabric. There's so many fun ways to change your looks on surfaces!
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