It's All In a Name

Mixed Media, 16" x 20", by Jennifer Snellings

I recently had the fun challenge of creating a name canvas to display while I am teaching at the Painting With a Twist Studio where I work.  I wanted to create something that not only represented my personal artistic style, but also conveyed a little bit about who I am.  I used colors, symbols and words to get my ideas across.  I chose the butterfly symbol because to me it represents new life and new beginnings.  I always love the idea that we can start fresh; we don't have to be "stuck" in a place where we aren't happy, whether it is a physical place or an emotional one.  The butterfly is also is an illustration of my faith.  As for my name, I decided to use my own handwriting rather than a certain font, again this adding a unique part of who I am to the canvas.  

Close up, Mixed Media, by Jennifer Snellings

I spent quite a bit of time deciding on the right quote to include.  Ultimately I went with the above quote by Van Gogh because I knew my classes would be looking at it and I wanted something that would encourage them.  Especially since many people are battling nerves when they come to paint!  It is also a great reminder to me to not let the negative voices in when it comes to my own personal artwork!

Process pictures, Mixed Media, by Jennifer Snellings

As far as my process for this piece, I began with the back ground, layering paint, papers, stamps and visual textures.  Once I was happy with the amount of layering, I created the butterfly.  I drew a quick template and attached it with painters tape to the canvas.  Next, I used white acrylic paint to create a border around the shape.  I feathered the paint out away from the template with my fingers to create the soft, fading look.  After the paint was dry, I removed the template revealing the untouched background behind it.

Butterfly close up, Mixed Media, by Jennifer Snellings

I love this masking technique and use it in my work often!  Finally, I used white paint to sketch out the letters of my name and then filled them in with my favorite color.  To finish it up, I added the ribbon and lace accent, some outlining around the butterfly and some highlighting around the letters.  I feel like it turned out very "me"!!

As always, I take commissions and can create a similar work for someone special in your life using a few of their favorite things and of course their name!!  Contact me if you are interested at tatteredartstudio@gmail.com!