Poppies, a New Concept

Recently I decided I need to shake things up a bit.  It felt like I was in a creative rut and needed to try something new.  After thinking about things for a few weeks, I decided to play with masking fluid and see what I could come up with.  

The primed paper and first layer of masking fluid

Using a Fineline Masking Fluid Pen, I drew the lines for the main shapes I wanted to portray on primed paper.  I wasn't as concerned with accuracy as far as botanical details as I was with the way the design looked.  It was fun to just draw what I liked until it pleased me.  

The lines of mask kept the paint from flowing outside of each shape, which I really liked

 

After the mask dried, I put down the first layer of color, letting the different mixtures blend and mix within the lines of mask.  I liked the way that looked and dropped in the color wherever I thought it would work.  

Each successive layer of paint and mask increased the depth of the design

After the first layer of paint dried, I applied more masking fluid with the same applicator I used before.  I added designs and lines over the blues and greens with the idea that as I added more paint to those areas, the mask would protect the lighter colors beneath.   

By the time I got to this point I was so excited it was difficult to wait for it to dry between steps

Alternating layers of color and mask, I built up the color depth and designs with each application.  The under-painting  I started with only showed up in the original lines.  I had two shades of reds that I allowed to blend together on the pre-wetted paper on the petal shapes, which was fascinating to watch. 

Poppies with Glitter and Sequins

20" x 14" on Arches 140 lb. cold pressed paper

Here's the best part- when the mask was removed and the whole thing was dry, I glued gold glitter in the centers of the flower shapes and turquoise and green sequins on the designs in random places! Glitter and sequins on a painting?  I wasn't sure if they would ruin the finished piece or add to it, but it was a grand experiment anyway, right?  I went for it, and it turned out to be the most fun piece of art I ever, EVER did... so far.  What a satisfying project.  

Thanks for stopping by! Alice