A Frame for the Buffalo...Cape Buffalo, that is.

So, I love being a painter. It feels like an extension of me. I got layed of from a job doing computer animation around 20 years ago. I liked the job because I got to use my creativity, but sometimes it was a little frustrating looking at a screen all day, and then trying to decipher what I had to input for the machine to deliver to me the desired result. Spent alot of time striving to learn how to "talk" to the computer in a language it would get. But, I digress- I had never been let go like that, so it was a hard time for me. When I began creating again with only my hands and a paintbrush, I realized that this was meant to be I very much enjoy creating and putting things together. It gives me a sense of being and productivity to participate in actions like these.

The Frame
 I can do a limited amount of woodwork, but because I hold in such high regard the skilled and talented people that really do it well, I sometimes almost dread the "money-saving" task of building a frame.
However, with some moulding from Home Depot, and some modifications that enable it capable of holding a painting, and render it to feel less like a piece baseboard and alot more like a painting frame, I feel it is a success.
 The finish I envisioned for the frame to my Cape Buffalo almost happened easily. Well, it did. I just knew when I looked at it this morning that it deserved to be pushed a little further. So, second attempt is a triumph. I feel it really has the feel of some elements of the painting without distracting from it.

The Finish
The dots or circular patterns in the finish are created by painting a darkish color base,(in this instance, a dark, almost black, brown.) when this dries, I used a silvery metallic was over the base. Quickly, while this layer is still wet, splatter denatured or rubbing alcohol ( I used my hands for control) with any instrument of your choice. The alcohol kind eats, or lightly removes a subtle amount of the top layer. I blow dry it to hurry it along and increase the dramatic effect of the technique. Before completely dry, blot off the excess alcohol evenly over the surface, creating even more effect and evening. Cool! I am very happy with it.

The Painting
So, here is the finished result.
A Cape Buffalo, intimidating and staring down the viewer, as to inquire of his next move. Forward? I think not.
I call this painting "Impasse."

"Impasse"
Cape Buffalo
24" x 36" oil on canvas
See more of my work @ http://www.bhensler.com/