‘Tidal Sunset’ Enamel & Mixed Media Picture
How was 'Tidal Sunset' made?
First the shape that became the tree tops was drawn on a piece of copper sheet and cut out with a pair of tin snips.
The rough shape that was cut by hand was filed to round and smooth the edges.
Next a layer of enamel powder was sifted on to the reverse of the copper using a fine sieve. The piece was then put into the hot kiln, on a stainless steel mesh support. Once the enamel had melted to form a smooth shiny surface it was taken out of the kiln to cool. This process was repeated to build up a thicker coat of enamel.
The piece was turned over so the colourful tree tops could be created. Again, layers of enamel were built up, first a plain black, then shades of green with details drawn though to the black enamel. Finally the tree branch shapes were added.
The tree trunks were made from a piece of recycled stainless steel chosen because it suggested these to me and I used a powered grinding machine to shape it, giving a more naturalistic form. The steel was coloured by heating in the kiln.
The trunks and branches were matched up to complete the trees and the two pieces joined together.
The woven base was made on a weaving frame rather than a loom. Beginning at the top of the picture the sky was woven in deep blues and pinky purples.
In case you are wondering about the pegs in the centre, these were used to create the 'slot' needed to insert the trees.
The weaving continues into paler shades of pink and purple.
On to the colours of the setting sun as it goes down behind the trees.
Working around the pegs for the 'slot' was tricky. The browns represent the land the trees are growing on.
The land gives way to water lapping on the shore. I used a variety of weaving materials, thicknesses and shades of blue and white to create the effect of water.
The picture was assembled, the trees inserted into the woven base with some adjustment for a snug fit. Finally the elements were joined together and mounted on cork.