Last week, when I was making very large gel medium transfers, I was inspired to start a new project - three collages created from an old class photo. Looks like the photo is from the early 1900's, some where here in Vermont- I think it's Woodstock, but not sure. There's a distinctive brick building in the background. I'm pretty sure this is the the green at the center of town. So I went out to Recycle North looking for canvas to collage over- they are in the middle of re-doing their art section, so it was slim pickin's. I found one and picked up a two pack at Michael's and as luck would have it- they are all the same size.
I gessoed the recycled canvas and then took over the dining room table laying out the collage elements. Usually when I am in this mode- it's really easy to go from step to step. But for some reason, I was hemmin' and hawin' about this. I'd put the elements on, take them off. I don't know what was making me so unsure- Maybe it is because they were real blank canvases, that I paid money for, instead of some thing re-purposed from the thrift store or dump. Who knows....
When I finally had a rough idea of what I wanted I started in on the background, gluing down large sheets of really old news paper (1916)- Pulling some off with tape and then painting with a wash to make it look all old and uniform.
We took the dog to the park for an hour or so, had some lunch, then it was back to the canvases. Laying three out on the table, laying the elements back on, taking some off, thinking about it too much. I did this for several hours. Between the indecision, I was scanning and listing new pieces on Etsy.
Finally, after the kids where sound asleep and I felt like it was time to just take the leap- I started in on with the glue. Now, two canvases, have first layers glued- and I'm ready to start up on the final one- I don't know what the problem was.... just a little fear of commitment I guess.
5 comments:
I love how that looks!
I love seeing the WIP of other artists, and your description of how you tiptoed with ideas out of commitment and fear is refreshingly honest. Not everything flows like a river, sometimes it's an uphill battle with ourselves to just let go. :) Great beginning, it's coming together so nicely. Ilove the distressed newspaper on the base of your canvas!
Coming along nicely! Totally understand the commitment issues - looks like you're breaking thru to the other side!!
I get this way sometimes, too. But what you have so far is workin'...go with it!
They are coming along beautifully! Yes that blank canvas can be a little daunting, but you just have to jump in. I can't wait to see the finished pieces!
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