Be a Double Agent

No, we’re not going to talk you into espionage but we are going to show you how to double your fun. Here is how you can put your brain to work creating depth and illusion. Let your ideas flow and see where the journey takes you.

TECHNIQUE ONE: I Can See Forever

This is a fun way to create instant depth, and you’ll be amazed to see the depth added by the reflective qualities of the metal leaf.

Step 1

Stamp (or paint or transfer an image) onto a piece of Plexiglas.

Step 2

When the piece is dry flip it over and randomly apply spray webbing.

Step 3

Paint over the reverse of the stamped images.

Step 4

This is what the piece looks like so far from the “right” or stamped side. You can already get a sense of the depth created.

Step 5

On the right side, add painted marks of your choice.

Step 6

Then turn the piece over again and spray fixative on the painted and webbed side.

Step 7

Lay a sheet of metal leaf on the fixative and press to bond the leaf to the surface.

Step 8

Remove the backing paper from the leaf.

Step 9

Admire the depth you’ve created. Incorporate additional elements and layers until you achieve the desired look.

TECHNIQUE TWO: Be A Magician

You can rearrange your composition at will. Create a grid of small paintings that can be reordered periodically to create a whole new work of art. Paint your art on small mat boards and then glue magnets on the back. You can arrange your composition on your refrigerator. Or start a magnet exchange program and you will find yourself appearing on refrigerators everywhere. Another option is to have a piece of metal cut and attach a wire for hanging. You can then attach your art to the metal and hang it anywhere.