Something New

July 2022

I started painting on panel this year. It’s much different than watercolor paper (my favorite), but wanted to try something new for a few reasons.

• To try something new! You don’t know what you don’t know. I wanted to create an opportunity to see other creative possibilities and change up my perspective.

• Different surface, different quality. My works on textured watercolor paper can have a velvety look and feel (which I love), where as the panel can be anywhere from smooth to super layered (depends on how far I want to push the surface). I like the variety and possibilities the panel can offer.

• Sturdy surface. If I use too much water on paper the fibers can loosen, tear, or the edges can ding. On panel, I can add lots of layers, work into the layers, add heavier media, or sand down to start all over again.

• Push myself to a larger size. I started on 8x10 panels, but quickly moved to 18x24. The larger size gives me more room to push the paint around and grow the composition. It is a good challenge to push me out of my comfort zone (aka 9x12 paper size).

• Framing is optional! If the panel’s edges are deep enough, a painted edge can look just as “finished” as a framed piece of artwork.