Gordon
Scott Schmaltz was born and spent most of his youth in Calgary, Alberta. After
spending fifteen years in the Caribbean, he returned to Canada and relocated to
Victoria in the spring of 2013.
Early
experimentation in a range of mediums - watercolor, ink, charcoal, and
photography - has led to his back painted acrylic on glass technique. He feels
the use of glass panels, combined with vivid acrylic colors, has finally
allowed him to fully express himself and create unique, contemporary, visually
pleasing art.
Gordon's
work has been heavily influenced by the sights experienced during his time
living and traveling outside Canada. From the stunning azure Caribbean Sea and
its vibrant coral reefs, to the contrasting colors and layers of peeling paint
that cling to the aged Massachusetts mill buildings. It has all found its way
onto his glass panels.
His
process requires forethought and patience as the process of painting occurs in
reverse. Highlights and dark areas take on special meaning, and colour needs to
be applied contrary to traditional order. Using the glass much the same way as
he would a canvas, multiple layers of acrylic paint are applied throughout the
development, and the outcome can at times be unpredictable. Glass can be
unforgiving, yet he is drawn to the technique for many reasons. In particular,
the added depth and vivid color, combined with the polished contemporary
appearance, makes glass his medium of choice.
Work
is done primarily on 6mm glass panels. Many pieces utilize reclaimed glass,
providing the condition and dimensions allow. Once completed, the acrylic paint
is sealed to protect the piece from moisture, and finished with a frameless
mounting system. This allows the art to stand off from the wall approximately
one inch, which gives the artwork a floating appearance.
No comments:
Post a Comment