top of page
Writer's pictureJulie McVey

Ditching the Canvas: A Rebel’s Guide to Alternative Art Surfaces



Hey there, art rebels and paint-slingers!


Buckle up, because we’re about to take a wild ride off the beaten path of the art world. Forget everything you know about canvases; it’s time to get down and dirty with some unconventional materials that’ll make your oils and acrylics scream, “I’m different!”


Hemp: The Bad Boy of Canvases


First up, we’ve got hemp. That’s right, the same stuff that’s been causing a stir everywhere. But in the art world? It’s the eco-warrior’s dream. This canvas is so sustainable, it practically hugs trees while you paint.


And let’s be real, it’s woven from the cannabis plant, so you know it’s got a story to tell.


For the oil aficionados, hemp is like that durable friend who can take a punch (or a heavy brushstroke) and still look good. It’s tough, it’s resilient, and it’ll make your colors pop like they’re at a rave. And for the acrylic crowd? Hemp is smoother than one-liners, ready to take on layer after layer of your artistic genius.


Wood: Not Just for Whittling Anymore


Moving on to wood – it’s not just for grandpa’s whittling hobby anymore. 


Wood panels are the OG of art surfaces, and they’re making a comeback faster than 90s fashion. Oil painters, get ready for a surface that’s as stable as your childhood dog. It’s ready for whatever meticulous details you throw at it.


Black Velvet: The Luxe Rebel


Let’s talk about black velvet, the James Dean of fabrics. It’s dark, mysterious, and has a texture that makes colors stand out like neon signs on a dark highway. Painting on black velvet isn’t just an art; it’s a statement.


Black velvet is the VIP section of the oil painters' club. It’s selective, not letting just any paint soak in. This means your colors sit on top, creating a richness and depth that’s as smooth as a that pick-up line you’ve been rehearsing. But be warned, it’s a tricky beast. You’ll need to master the art of layering and have the patience of a saint. 

 

Black velvet loves acrylics. The paint stays bright and the fabric's texture adds a dimension that's as unexpected. This is a nod to my great-grandmother, Mable Turner - her black velvet paintings and murals were breathtaking.  


Cardboard: Embracing Imperfection


As we zigzag through the art world’s back alleys, we stumble upon cardboard – the underdog of art materials. It’s the scrappy kid on the block that’s been playing it cool in the shadows of fine art. But don’t let its day job as a box fool you; cardboard is the ultimate playground for the avant-garde artist.


For the oil painters who like their art like they like their coffee – strong and unfiltered – cardboard is your canvas. It’s rough, it’s ready, and it’s raring to go. Its texture is as unpredictable, making each stroke a surprise party for your senses.


Plus, it’s light on the wallet. So many positives.


Cardboard is acrylic warrior allies in the battle against the bland. It drinks up acrylic like it’s happy hour, giving you layers of color that are as rich as this blogs content. Use it solo or throw it into the mix of a multimedia piece; cardboard is all about making a statement that says, “I woke up like this.”


Cotton Sheets: A Soft and Supple Canvas


Just when you thought bed sheets were only good for snoozing, we’re flipping the script. Cotton sheets are stepping out of the linen closet and onto the art scene. They’re soft, they’re supple, and they’re ready to be your muse.


Cotton sheets are those comfy t-shirt perfect for every occasion. They’re smooth, flexible, and perfect for those who like to get hands-on with their art. Whether you’re out in the wild or painting where the WiFi is weak, cotton sheets are your go-to for art on the move.


Acrylic aficionados, cotton sheets are your blank slate for boldness. They’re the quiet type that lets your paint do the talking, holding onto every layer like a precious secret.


Stretch 'em, frame 'em, love 'em – cotton sheets are the unsung heroes of the art world.


So, there you have it, folks.


Sustainability hustle, timeless charm, and unconventional art surfaces. They're here to shake things up and make your art stand out in a world of vanilla canvases.



Tell me, Rebels, what unconventional art surface would you include to ALSO be a midnight snack?! Let's get painting!







5 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page