One of the most significant parts of creating my art is to make something that is truly personal and meaningful for my clients. Recently I had the privilege of creating a new painting for a special High School Senior's graduation gift! I worked closely with the recipient's Mom and she gathered special letters and notes of encouragement from dear family and friends. I also learned that one of her favorite symbols is the anchor. Taking all of this information, I incorporated it, along with my artistic vision, and came up with a unique keepsake that will hopefully always be a reminder of this special time in her life!
I began the background of the painting with a collage of the letters (using copies of course) and layered them on the canvas sealing them with gel medium. On a side note, all of the original letters were safely saved in a special scrapbook, not only allowing each to be read in full, but also creating another meaningful element of the gift!
Collage of written notes.
Once the collage dried, I added layers of paint and stamps creating a richly textured surface.
First layers of acrylic paint.
Layering of stamps and other textures.
Next, I sketched the anchor and transferred the design onto the canvas. I filled the shape of the anchor in with pre-selected parts of the letters that for the most part included the signatures of loved ones and special phrases or sentiments; all parts that I wanted to highlight.
Collaged anchor shape.
Once the anchor was complete, it was time for the verse and a few other sentimental collage pieces to be added. Then everything was tied together with a final layer of texture created with paint and stamps.
Completed painting!
It was such a joy and privilege to create this meaningful piece for this special Graduate! If you are looking for a unique, personal gift for a special person in your life, I'd love to help! If you are interested in my commissioned paintings, please contact me at tatteredartstudio@gmail.com!