Seren
I really enjoy working with alcohol ink because it’s a challenge to control how the colors will mix and to find a foundation that’s interesting and unexpected. So…I was thinking about how the colors are so vibrant, but can be softened by smudging and thinning them; then I began to think about non-porous surfaces that would be on the other end of the spectrum from soft and airy. At first I wanted glass but glass is fragile and I want to send these to some of my mail art friends.
I knew I wanted metal of some sort, but I was worried about finding something that would be easy to handle -- 
meaning, not needing to be cut. I have metal nips in my studio in Minneapolis, but nothing here in Cali that would do that job. So, I went to Home Depot. I was looking for magnetic paint, and got sidetracked when I stumbled across 5x7 sheets of metal (steel not tin)…just larger than a post card! I bought singles on my first trip -- $.44 each…and I bought five. I was worried that maybe they’d be coated with something that would repel the ink so I started small. Well, the first five were wonderful fun. I created 5 very distinct pieces of work…and I immediately fell in love…so what’s the down side? Well, the edges are extremely sharp. My first concern is that someone will cut themselves. I’ve contemplated covering the edges with duct tape…yes, silver duct tape. Why? Because it connects the flashing to its roots, while framing the art in a new and interesting way. Then I thought, I like the sharp edges. I like the Do Not Touch element it give each piece. These are purely for looking at…and I like that message. It works with the way I’ve been feeling of late.
Pretty to look at, but be careful if you’re going to touch.
I plan to mail these in cardboard mailers with magnets in each corner, front and back, to keep the packaging doesn’t push against the paint AND when the work arrives…the new owner will have a way to display the work immediately. For now they are on my work boards…Ikea metal message boards ($13.99) hanging in my Living Room. They look good displayed like this…the two small ones are from my first batch of 5 singles.
The larger piece is my favorite and may stay displayed just like this! These sheets are 8x12 and cost $.97. These 
are hard to photograph because they have a lot of metallic ink in them, which freaks out my flash…and I’m not a good photographer! The larger one shown here is on its side because this is the only way I could get a decent close up. FYI: The 5x7 size comes in singles and bundles of 25. I went back the next day and bought a bundle for less than $5 and I’m in heaven!
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Reader Comments (10)
I bet the paintings would look great in bright sunlight.
Of course...duh! Outside, natural light!
I will do that this weekend.
It didn't occur to me because I love them on the message boards (that black background) and those are REALLY on the wall (don't ask). But yes...I can make other arrangements for the background.
Thanks!
Seren
Your metal postcard arrived. Looks great. I digitized it and will publish it on my blog.....
thanks!
Ruud Janssen
(now I will figure out what to send in return)
Can't wait to see your work up close!
Seren
Did you see the illustrations of your mailing on http://iuoma.blogspot.com ?
best wishes,
Ruud
Seren
Try taking the photos without flash. Generally for most art paintings... it is not necessary... at least it works for me.
If you send me your mailing address I will mail you one of my cards. And I would love to see what you make too.
Swap?