Multi panel oil paint monoprint simple low budget demo

Dan Tirels Multi panel monoprint simple low budget demo I'm trying to make improvements to my channel and video content and throughout the month of July I will try to post a new demo video every day. Thanks for all the comments and feedback on the demos, it is always appreciated. I really like working on these multi panel pieces and they are a great way to generate ideas for larger paintings, it's a good technique for exploring colour and because you are working on several at the same time it really helps you to focus on the composition. This piece is from my "Heads and Bodies" series that I have just begun to start work on in which I will explore and experiment with abstract human forms, I will post a few more samples of this series in the future as it develops, and will have pieces in the gallery on my website. Method : I begin with a simple template grid, 9 panels feature in this one, but you could use less to begin with until you are more confident with the process. I like to have a small gap separating each panel but again this is your choice, decide on the layout and cut a template using recycled card. I now begin to compose each of the panels laying down simple cut shapes, I will sometimes sketch out a few ideas first and experiment as I arrange the shapes on the grid, it's important to remember that these shapes act as the masks and block out the paint from the paper forming solid shapes and the focus of each panel. Unlike the previous monoprinting techniques I use scissors to cut the shapes which allows more control and precision, the torn newspaper is better for a more random abstract appearance and is better used on a bigger scale. Begin to apply the first layer of colour (lightest first, I used Cadmium Yellow mixed with a little Cadmium Red ) it important to use a very thin layer of oil paint spread evenly on the transfer sheet, (plastic bag recycled) too much paint will produce a solid colour with little texture, it helps to remove excess paint from the transfer sheet first. Light pressure will produce softer tones, I use an old blunt pencil or biro to add texture and fine lines then use fingertips for more solid forms, remember always leave plenty of white in the composition. With the last layer (in this case Ivory Black) it is important to control the amount of paint, it is so easy to apply too much and ruin the composition at this stage, work from the previous layer, replace the cut shapes but move slightly from the original position. As with all these techniques it takes practice and it doesn't always work out but with time you can get really impressive results and use the techniques on your own style and interest. I hope you find the techniques useful, remember that although the demo is just 16 minutes long this piece of work took over 2 hours, so don't rush ! I will answer any questions you have in the comments below. Thanks for watching. Materials : Oil paint (Cadmium Yellow, Cadmium Red, Ivory Black, Daler Rowney Georgian series) Fabriano Accademia 200gsm paper Recycled card /parcel tape (for mask) Plastic carrier bag Scrap card Scissors Masking tape Mixing knife Rags/sponge/tissue Old blunt pencil and biro Latex gloves (although I don't wear them in this video, I recommend them as it does get messy)