Process | Carolyn Sharp Art

Some of the most frequent questions I’m asked are “What is your process?", "What is your inspiration?" Here are a few of my answers.

Inspiration

Nature is my greatest inspiration. During my process, marks and abstract images emerge recalling the power of nature. Remembrances of all of the natural elements may find themselves showing up on my canvas, and I love hearing how my paintings are interpreted by each viewer, imparting their own ideas of place, memories and experiences.

Abstract Expressionism

My paintings suggest, rather than tell, a specific story which each viewer interprets differently. My process is intuitive and playful, eventually challenging myself to filter and simplify, striving to create art that connects with others in a positive way.

Mediums & Substrates

My paintings contain many layers, switching between transparent and opaque pigments and cool and warm colors to provide visual interest. By using various mediums with the paint I’m able to create unique marks on the surface.

Acrylic paintings - My acrylic paintings include collage, ink and charcoal along with acrylic paints on canvas or wood panel. I use the same techniques as with my oil paintings by building up texture, removing, scraping and discovering unique marks along the way.

Oil & cold wax paintings - These works are created using oil paint mixed with cold wax medium on birch panels or Arches oil paper. I often incorporate dry pigments like ash or powdered graphite, plus I use oil paint sticks during the process. Each painting is created by slowly building texture as the paint is applied, scraped away in areas, and scratched into.

Brushes & Tools

Texture and abstraction are the main focus of my work, so I'm constantly experimenting with tools and techniques to achieve interesting surfaces. I use silicone bowl scrapers, palette knives, brushes and other tools such as bamboo skewers and brayers to apply, scrape, wipe and remove layers of paint, creating texture as I build each painting. I collect a variety of everyday objects to use as stamps and stencils to press into the oil & cold wax which creates shapes on the surface. These can be as simple as bubble wrap, cardboard, embossed wallpaper, tissue paper, and string.

This is just quick overview of my answers about the way that I use materials, tools and techniques. I share more about this in my workshops in my studio in Elora, Ontario, Canada. If you’re interested in learning more, please visit my Art Classes page.

CAROLYN SHARP

ARTIST

This is just quick overview of my answers about the way that I use materials, tools and techniques. I share more about this in my workshops in my studio in Elora, Ontario, Canada. If you’re interested in learning more, please visit my Art Classes page.