How I Paint

I create paintings with acrylics using a laying system. I work out my design on paper first, from a combination of photos and imagination. This image is penciled onto the canvas or paper and then I make the background patterns using various methods like dripping, scraping back, splattering, smudging and spraying. I often use spray paints and oil pastels to add depth to the work as they repel the acrylic paint, creating some lovely effects. I also use grey and coloured pencils and occasionally add recycled plastic to my work. 

Next I paint around the outlines from my original design (blocking out areas) with acrylic paint in a muted colour, different from the highlight areas so it stands out. I often go over these highlight areas (animals and trees) while I am blocking out as I am getting an idea of the end result and need to add depth to certain parts. 

This painting process is continually changing and I am now also blocking out areas in transparent colours so the background can show through as seen in the "Budgie" painting below.