Artists for many centuries have used copper as a substrate for paintings, many of which were alter pieces. This project titled Minerals, Metals, and Dirt is an exploration of painting with mineral and earth pigments; not only copper, but also gold leaf, silver leaf, aluminum, stainless steel, and brass.

The aesthetic of oil paint on the shimmering surface of metal is quite beautiful in many ways and the benefits are varied. The rigid surface prevents any cracking. There is no absorption to dull the colors. The smooth quality allows all of the paint to sit all atop the surface, which is unlike the up and down texture of a canvas weave.

Pigments such as lapis lazuli, Egyptian blue frit, malachite, cinnabar, tiger’s eye, azurite, Amazonite, lead-tin yellow and earth colors are used here. These magical pigments have been used by artists the world over for many centuries.

 

Gallery (click an image to see a larger size and view a slideshow)

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