Back in October, I took an
awesome workshop with
Sarah Whitmire.
We learned about using textural elements in still life paintings. This class was only my second time using acrylics on canvas. The
textural elements created some interesting details in my painting! The
most valuable thing I walked away from the class with, though, was
confidence - I CAN paint on canvas! I don't have to rely completely on
collage to convey images in my work! Holy cow!
When it came time to plan my gift-making adventures for the
holidays, I spent some time carefully considering my options. Last year,
I felt like I over-committed myself. Part of the cause was unexpectedly
working extra hours at my day job. However, I think the projects I
chose to make also played a role in causing unnecessary stress. I made
projects last year that I thought would please the recipients, but I
didn't consider how enjoyable they would be for me to make. I spent many
frustrating hours cranking out items that I didn't feel inspired by.
Yes, the gifts were successful and well-liked... but I think there must
be some overlap between making items that inspire me and making items
that the recipients will love... right?
This year, I chose to follow my muse - I worked on a series of
random projects (sewing, knitting, painting, jewelry...) that made me feel
energized and inspired all month long. The list included a couple of
textural canvas paintings, inspired by Sarah's class. If you had told me
a year ago that I'd be gifting people canvas paintings for Christmas,
there's no way I would have believed you... but I'm here to share the
first painting that was given to its recipient.
One of my friends loves Hula Minnie. For a variety of reasons,
this character really resonates with her. Well, there is virtually no
Hula Minnie merchandise out there, so I decided to paint this for her as
a gift.
It's
on an 8x8 canvas. I used Tim Holtz crackle paint (background), and
Golden brand fiber paste (sand), coarse molding paste (lei) and light
molding paste (skin) for the textures. Here's a closeup of some of the
texture.
I
finished the painting the night before I gave it to my friend, so I
took the photos under my studio Ott light. It created a little glare on
the glossy black paint... the color is more crisp in person. It took
several days of work to complete the underpainting, the top coat of
paint, the detailing work, and the layer of distressing paint, but the
process was extremely enjoyable. I had spent so much time with Minnie
that I had second thoughts about giving her up! It was worth it, though.
My friend was teary-eyed when she opened it - the ultimate reaction to a
handmade gift.
I'll share some more gifts after the holiday! Hope you are enjoying the season as much as I am!
