Most of us have dabbled in painting a few times in our lives. The medium that you choose to paint with is an important determination that must be made during the design phase of your project. Traditionally, painting involves a canvas or any other flat surface upon which the image will be painted; it also involves the right medium that shall be used to paint the image. Acrylics, watercolors and charcoal are among the most used media selections.
For the more courageous, there is a completely different method that involves smoke. The method being referred to is fumage or smoke painting. Wolfgang Paalen discovered and was the first to use smoke painting techniques. Smoke painting can yield images that range from surreal and disturbing to mesmerizing and extraordinary. If you are fascinated by such a concept and wish to try out this method for an upcoming project, here are several simple steps to assist you with learning using the fumage technique.
Take the time to visualize your anticipated design in your mind. Just as with any creative project, the initial step that must be performed is visualization. Not all of us have the capacity to visualize unambiguous images in our minds. Thus, it is a good idea to visualize the overall picture that you want to achieve by manually sketching the design or by using a form of computer software that will allow you to produce a rough sketch. It might be best practice, due to the nature of the medium to keep your designs uncomplicated and/or abstract (e.g., human forms, basic shapes, etc).
Assemble the supplies that you will require for the project. A kerosene lamp or candles are examples of tools that produce smoke that can be generally used for this type of project. Since this project is for beginners, candles of varying thickness and wick lengths are ideal. This is because longer wicks produce smoother patterns, while shorter ones produce solid and dark shades and forms. Using these will allow you to come up with varied pictures with varied shading or intensities. Aside from the candles, you will also need a canvas and protective goggles and gloves for your hands and eyes.
Applying fumage technique. It cannot be stressed enough how very crucial it is that you take safety into consideration; wearing goggles and gloves is a good start, but you must also consider your surroundings and whether or not anything may be flammable, since you are working with candles. First, place the canvas in a position where you will be able to move it about while you work. You might need to paint from the side or beneath the canvas. Next, begin painting by using any of your chosen candles to apply the shading. In doing so, keep in mind that the angle and speed with which the candle flame is dragged across or beneath the surface can help produce different shades. If you are hesitant, try doing some practice strokes on a different canvas before applying anything to your ongoing project. You must let your creativity flow and try out various ways to create images using fumage.
Finishing touches. Once you are done, do not overlook the need to spray fixative on your finished work. In doing so you will be able to preserve the image that you have designed.
Find More Information At:
How to create an elegant teen bedroom