I have been sharing my videos on my Instagram page of the way I jump start a painting.

I recently needed to complete a series of 18 paintings for an art show in Ventura, California.

I chose a 12×12 canvas format, and needed to figure out a way to make the project not so overwhelming. Sometimes having all of that white canvas staring back at me can put me in a bit of an artists block.

I decided to modify a technique I learned to hand-dye paper, and use it on canvas.

It involves a bit of smooth flow acrylic paint…and a credit card. I think this technique has been called pour and scrape? I like to call it Paint Mixing Directly on Canvas.

I like the unpredictability this technique offers.

The first easy layer is just that, a first easy layer. I will then add to the canvas with several more layers of backgrounds, rubbing in oil pastels, hand painting, collaged elements and mark making with metallic pens and charcoal pencil.

The final piece is then varnished and wired for hanging.

Using this technique feels very meditative and relaxing, and it takes away the pressure to cover up all that white space and allows me the freedom to dream of my paintings.

Mahalo (Thank you) for letting me share!

More info: mikaharmony.com

Mika Harmony: Paint Mixing Directly on Canvas

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