Jackson Pollock
(1912-1956}
Action painting differs from traditional brush-on-canvas art. It is a dynamic style of applying paint spontaneously. The paint is literally tossed onto the canvas whether it is against the wall, or directly on the floor. Jackson Pollock was known for using this style. Colors must relate to each other and blobs of paint are set to dry at specific spots and places. Follow these steps to make an action painting.
Instructions
1. Set aside a room in the garage or someplace where you can cover the walls and the floor. Place towels, paper or some other removable covering on the floor and surrounding areas.
2. Place your paints on the table or wherever you are going to work. Put the colors next to the ones that you are going to use. Just because you are not going to paint with a brush does not mean that you are not going to prepare your colors and shape schemes.
3. Decide whether you will want to set the canvas against the wall or on the floor. Each place will get a different look once you start dripping or splattering the paint. Picture the painting in your mind then pour the paint, slowly moving your hand as you wish, so the paint is thicker on one area than the other. As it drips, some areas might curve while others seem to disappear.
4. Know your colors. Buy a color chart if you are new to painting. Use a knife to move the paints around, or to draw slight lines in them. There is no wrong way to drip paint. It is a form of abstract art, and the only one who decides what to do, and do it, is yourself.
5. Have your child join you. She can drip the paint as you move it. This is a wonderful gooey and messy form of art that children often enjoy participating in, especially if they love finger painting.
