Evolution of a Wall Sculpture
This is the rough unfinished work as seen by collectors during a studio visit.
They were very interested in the piece but wanted it to have a larger presence.
Per their request, I came up with a design for a large backer and I think it worked out well.
The following is the process in photographs.
The first and most challenging task in making the addition to the piece was deciding on the size of the backer and finding the best visual center of the sculpture.
Here’s the first coat of my hand-made modeling paste on the plywood backer.
Easel in my outdoor art studio.
The 4’x4’ backer is strong and won’t warp.
Testing the appearance of the backer with the work in progress. I was happy with the look as there was plenty of room for the shadows.
Repeated rounds of sanding and patching minor surface imperfections can be very tedious.
Ready for more airbrushing
This work in progress floats off the backer with only three points of contact. I think it captures the light so well.
I do my final review in harsh sunlight as all the flaws cannot hide. This was the day I decided the piece (working title: Vortex) was finally done. Yay!
© 2023 Jill HH Lipka. All rights reserved.