Lisa Thorpe

Let Your Light Shine

Last week I shared the piece I made for Cloth Paper Scissors magazine artist challenge.  I sent the art off to the editors there so we’ll see what happens I’ll keep you posted on what issue to look for.  While I was brainstorming on how to use the Grafix materials I was sent, I was struck by their translucent nature and wondered if I might be able to use them as little lanterns or lampshades. So this week I did some experimenting. The Dura-lar material is a flexible plastic with a matte opaque finish.  I wanted to come up with a way to mark the surface without blocking out all the light.  I experimented with roughly coloring the whole surface with permanent makers and then dripping rubbing alcohol to blend and blur it.  This worked well and made a lovely pale marbled effect.  For interest I stamped with rubber stamp designs using black permanent ink.  I liked how this came out but I wanted more brilliant colors.  I tried acrylic paints, they work but too much and it takes away the transparent nature and blocks the light. I have been hearing a lot of chatter on the blogosphere about alcohol inks so I decided to try them.  WOW what color! By dripping drops of the ink in a variety of colors then dripping rubbing alcohol it makes an impressive marbleized effect and very vibrant.  I stamped this also with black using a self made stamp.  I love the look. I just might submit this idea to a magazine out there and definitely share it at some workshops, this is something people of all ages could enjoy. Let your light shine and why not be colorful while you’re at it.

I have some pieces at group show in Healdsburg the opening is this Saturday 5-7 pm “Those Who Inspire” at Healdsburg Art Center February 6^th-March 3^rd HCA

I also have a solo show opening in San Fransicso at Gallery 1055 in the Dio House (Next to Grace Cathedral) I’m hanging it tomorrow, here is the opening info.

ZIG-ZAG: the back and forth between modern and traditional. Opening: Thursday February 21st 6:00pm Gallery 1055 info