Enamel and Painting Process
My mixed media work combines vibrant color fields in acrylic paint with kiln-fired enamel (liquid and powdered) on tiny and larger copper sculptures.
I begin each piece with a concept of a color palette and an organic centerpiece. All of my pieces are informed by the materials that I use. For example, if I am painting on a wood panel, then I consider the graining as character that can be included; however, if I use mulberry paper, then the tooth (texture) of the paper inspires me to incorporate that into the texture of leaves, skin or feathers.
I never really know what the end result will actually look like. The final creation manifests itself throughout the process of making. I would say it is like a conversation being had between my subconscious and rational mind and the mediums themselves.
Enamel Explained
Enamel is an ancient art form that dates back to at least the 13th-century BCE. Mycenaean period goldsmiths created rings with inlaid enamel pieces. Around the 5th-century BCE the Greeks were also using inlays of enamel glaze in sculptures. It has been seen around the world through various ages and cultures.
Enamel is basically fine powdered glass that is sifted or poured in a painterly way onto a metallic substrates and fired at high temperatures, between around 1450°F to 1500°F using a kiln or torch. Enamel is able to fuse to pure gold, fine silver and pure copper. It is a simple medium to learn but very difficult to master.
In my own studio kiln I primarily use 18g copper but sometimes utilize copper foil, fine silver wire and/or 23k gold leaf in my designs.
I am a Memphis, Tennessee and Carbondale, Colorado based artist who combines enamel on copper pieces and sculptures with acrylic paint to create on-of-a-kind paintings.
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In my work I wish for you to see the world as I do through the little glass and copper (enamel) sculptures, opaque color fields within dynamic geometry and a thousand tiny dots. Every component is used intentionally to convey some meaning or to celebrate my love of the materials being used.
Cherry's Orchid Process
FIRE SCALE
