Creating "Mud & Light"

I decided I'd like to try experimenting with oil painting onto un-stretched canvas as part of my project.  I experimented with some collaged smaller pieces first, using thick layering and added mud from Warden Bay beach, which is outside my front door on Isle of Sheppey, at the eastern side of the Island.

I really enjoyed using materials in this way, with found objects and the oil/mud combination, as I love lots of texture in pieces.

Experiment 1

Experiment 1 from one of my Photos

Unfortunately, I'd put the mud on so thickly that it began to crack up.  Also, I think I hadn't let the underpainted gesso dry sufficiently.

Showing cracking

Experiment 2

 

 

This one worked better.  I used more and thinner layers, and added less thickly coated mud.

 

I decided to do an oil painting which would go on the wall of Fred's caravan.  I took the image from one of my photos of a sunset over the bay...

 

 

 

Layer 1

I added four thin layers of acrylic gesso to provide a good ground for the paint and allowed to dry for a lengthy time.   I painted the piece in three layers...  Detail of Layer 1

 



Layer 2

Layer 3 with mud used with oils

 





I made a mistake on the sizing of the painting, which means when I stretched it I had to touch up the edges with acrylics.  Still this was a good learning point, check once, check twice, plan and prepare before putting paint to canvas!  I am happy with the finished piece, I think it strongly reflects my feelings about the natural environment that surrounds me.