How It's Made

Fluid art is a highly experimental and expressive form of abstract painting. By manipulating paints, I am able to create a mesmerizing one-of-a kind piece. I love the unpredictable nature of fluid art. Although I start with a plan of what I want to create, I never truly know what the final piece will look like until it has dried. Here's a brief rundown of the steps involved.

Preparation

Once I put on my apron and gloves, I select my acrylic paint..It is often metallic because I can achieve the most dramatic effects. I also include florescent paints to achieve even more dramatically effects. I carefully choose the color combinations, ensuring they will mix together well and will project the mood I am aiming for.  To achieve the best paint consistency, I add a special formula of pouring mediums to the paint. I then compare the consistency of each color. This allows me to achieve the desired fluidity (which is key) to manipulate the paint effectively.  Although I start with a plan, I never truly know what the final piece will look like until it has dried.

I sometimes use canvas but prefer my homemade wood panel frames. I apply a base coat . Then I apply my color combinations while all the materials remain wet.

Apply Paint

There are many  techniques to apply the paint. I prefer to pour the individual colors from squeeze bottles or eye droppers one at a time . Depending on the look I have in mind, the colors often are on top of each other in a circle, straight line or curves. 

Manipulation

  • The primary technique I use is called a Dutch pour. A dutch pour is the process of moving the liquid paints with a blower, a specialized straw, or both. All this must be done on a perfectly level surface.  As the paint is manipulated, patterns and designs emerge. Sometimes I need to add more color to the original and blow them out too until the effect I envisioned is achieved. Then I use a torch to eliminate any bubbles.

Completion

Once the piece is fully dry, I normally apply two coats of Epoxy in a temperature controlled, dust free environment. This protects the artwork and enhances the depth and vibrancy of the colors.  I carefully add artist picture hanging cable.

 

Enjoy

Take it to the community markets and have fun sharing my works and making new friends.