The Process: Tissue Paper Painting

Tissue paper paintings capture gesture: a thousand words in one image. Printed tissue paper is rich in options and there is so much discovery in layering colors, patterns, and texture. I work from a photograph or a feeling or a face that I recall. I love this medium and I cannot wait to work on the next one.

Tissue paper painting requires 3 things:

Paper; any printed tissue paper or napkin (separated from the backing layer) will work. Patterns, solid, gradated, sparkles, metallic – anything. And you would be amazed at the variety available.
Glue or a medium that binds the paper to a board, canvas, or any surface.
A brush to apply to the surface where the paper is placed.

Layers of torn or cut paper create astonishing and unexpected colors and images. It is a beautiful medium to work in because so many things happen that you cannot plan. Colors bleed, shapes (scraps of paper) seem to put themselves in the ideal spot and a picture emerges.