How to paint with alcohol paints.

As the technique and philosophy in art should, at least to me, go hand in hand, thinking about art and practicing technique is just a reality of day to day work. After some experimentation, on average, I use combinations of materials: alcohol paints, acrylic paints and mediums, alcohol markers, and pigment paints. I experiment by dripping, painting, spraying, stenciling, and what not. Usually each mistake brings forth an interesting contributions and I want to keep track of the examples.

I am currently working on the page of all materials I use so check the website.

Paint/Drip Technique:

Transcript the drawing to the Dura-Lar. For art work I use Plexiglas but for practicing techniques I use Dura-Lar.

In the Paint/Drip Technique I like to add an additional component and that is a border. The border in my painting has a few justifications. It reminds me of my favorite art: Stained Glass. It produces a separation so the drip paints don’t overflow where it should not. It creates an interesting break in texture. It’s fun to play and experiment with.

Alcohol based Markers, Blick Studio Acrylics, Texture Paste, Pinata Alcohol Paints, and Pinata Claro Extender.

Outline.

Cover with masking tape to prepare space for the border.

I will apply border with a paint knife into the space free of tape.

Apply paint. I also added a different color and pigment paints to experiment a little.

Take masking tape off.

With a small brush and alcohol paints (Jacourd Pinata Burro Brown) paint outline.

When finished with outlining prepare for dripping. You may drip paint from the bottle and see how it spreads but also you may first put a drop or two of Pinata Claro Extender on the surface and put a drop of Chili Pepper Pinata paint and watch how it spreads. You may direct the paint by moving the Dura-Lar.

It is a start to practicing alcohol/mix technique painting. One of most important features is add/subtract technique. Since it is a practice exercise on Dura-Lar I am not afraid of making mistakes. I rather invite mistakes to see what I can learn about the paints.

A good technique is only an excuse to bring to attention something you feel strong about.

"Flint, MI" was painted in 2016. The main preoccupation of the painting and its idea is water.

Send me your feedback or links to videos and techniques.

Czesc.