Sunday, November 10, 2013

raw abstract


Native
Acrylic on 24" x 32" heavy 156lb. watercolor paper
Ready to frame


This one is different for me as it has a primitive or raw feel to it.  It was begun with graphite on wet watercolor paper followed by washes of acrylic paint. Lastly, the graphite lines were re-emphasized. Ordinarily, I would continue building layers that create a textured surface.  There is something appealing to me in this painting with less.  Sometimes the hardest is knowing when your done.  Again, expectations can get in the way of your thinking and they need to be let go.  Easier said....than done!

Full portfolio of my abstract work can be viewed: HERE
For more information email me: elizabethchapman@artlover.com

Elizabeth Chapman
Contemporary Abstract Artist


7 comments:

Sue Marrazzo Fine Art said...

Such Fun colors!

Bren Graham Thebeau said...

I think your a wise lady going with your instincts. This piece works I think because of the intricacies of the graphite etchings.

Elizabeth Chapman said...

Thanks Sue, glad your enjoying them!

Elizabeth Chapman said...

Thanks for the vote, Bren!!

Christinep45 said...

Your work is so inspiring to me Elizabeth!!! Thank you for sharing your amazing talent with us. How do you keep your water colour paper from wrinkling when you paint on it? Do you have any tips? Much appreciated.

Elizabeth Chapman said...

Christine, #1tip is that it helps to use a heavy watercolor paper, the heavier the better as it absorbs the water. I begin with the paper soaking wet and it lays flat on the table this way. It can wrinkle up as it drys, but I really don't worry about it too much. If I work with a lot of layers the weight of the paint flattens it out. With lighter paper and watercolors you can use an iron on a lower setting to flatten your painting back out. Use it on the backside and place a paper between painting and iron. Careful though, don't set the iron on any one spot for very long. It works!

Sunny Avocado Art said...

Very beautiful!