I started a new work on canvas. It’s inspired by images of bombings. I’ve only started with the base layer: a cold blue sky. I’m not sure any of this sky background will be visible by the time I’m done with the painting, which is part of the point. I plan to use it as a backdrop for a series of masks in copper and brass that I’m forming in tandem and will attach to the canvas when it’s ready. I’m approaching this as a textured layer painting like some of my works from a few years back. I have a couple of new acrylic mediums I want to play with to make an image reminiscent of smoke and shrapnel.
Brass and copper masks WIP 20220412 ©2022
I’ve been working in brass and copper and playing with fire painting, which is interesting on copper but less effective on brass. With the brass, the high polish is beautiful and offers a great contrast with the brushed finish of the fire-patina’d copper. It’s been fun playing with the two metals in a larger scale than I usually use work. The differences in workability is subtle but noticeable. Brass is a bit stiffer, copper takes different surface treatments with ease. Both offer potential for distinct patination which I’d like to use for some further exploration.