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The Process: “Study in Duct Tape and Irony”

The inspiration for a painting sometimes comes unexpectedly. Recently, I picked up a friend from the airport and inspiration struck when his guitar case came around the baggage claim carousel. Here was this beat up, duct-taped-up guitar case with a prominent, though battered, warning, “Fragile. Handle with care.” I loved the irony of it, and knew right then that I had to paint it.

Since the painting was to be gifted back to him, I thought it would be fun to document and share the process.

So, now, I invite you to journey through the creation of “Study in Duct Tape and Irony”:

Step 1:

The reference photo

Step 2:

Initial sketch and decision thumbnails

Step 3:

Original sketch is enlarged to finish size (using scanner/copier) and then transferred manually (using a pencil and lightbox) onto the watercolor paper.

Step 4:

Watercolor paper with transferred sketch is now ready for paint application.

Step 5:

Color combination for initial “guitar” wash is identified.

Step 6:

Masking fluid is applied to temporarily “save whites.” Then the initial wash is applied to the guitar case using wet-into-wet application.

Step 7:

Rough texture and details are added to the guitar case using scuffing and dry brush application techniques. The masking fluid is then removed.

Step 8:

Depth and details are added by glazing, a watercolor technique which uses multiple thin layers of transparent pigment applied over dry existing washes.

Step 9:

All layers are visible below the top layer, creating depth and dimension. Above example shows initial underpainting on duct tape.

Step 10:

Entire painting is now coming together as most of the details are in place. Adding the final color punch is next.

Step 11:

Color experiments are done off-painting in order to select the best color combination and technique to use for the focal point of the painting.

Step 12:

Initial color washes for focal point are now in place and masking fluid is removed. Painting is now ready for final “push-pull” technique whereby highlights are pulled forward (lightened) and shadow areas are pushed back (darkened) giving overall balance.

Step 13:

“Warm” color washes are then added into the duct tape detail to brighten these areas and allow the viewer’s eye to naturally bounce around the bright red focal point.

Viola! Painting is complete.

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