The "canvas" that I produce the auto-paintings on is actually tanned cowhide leather.  The subject of the work is carved and modelled into the hide using a variety of tools to provide a permanent three-dimensional aspect to the subject. 

 

All my works are produced on the finest quality cowhide leather which is specially imported from Argentina.

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To achieve as realistic a result as possible I specifically concentrate on the composition of the picture, the specific details of the subject motor car and finally the colouring of the piece with airbrushed acrylic paint.

 

The Process starts with the subject of the work being drawn onto damp leather.  Then the background area around it is bevelled down to create the sense of depth between the subject and the background - the same effect that is created on a medallion by having the background pressed down.

 

In a method that is similar to that used by a sculptor, the details of the subject are then modelled into the still damp leather using specially designed tools. 

 

This process allows me to reproduce the very finest details of the automobile into the work adding to the authentic and accurate reproduction of the particular model.  As can be seen ultra- fine detailing is possible. Once the leather dries the tooling and modelling will be permanently embedded into the leather which is now ready to be painted.

 

The painting stage:  I utilise the finest quality fade-free airbrush acrylic paints for this stage.  Airbrushing ensures the transitions from dark to light are incredibly smooth.  The layers of paint are slowly built up to provide a level of transparency which more closely resembles the depth one sees in an actual automobile's paint work.  Each artwork will require between twelve and twenty layers of paint.  Once this stage is completed, the colouring is protected with two coats of a clear matt varnish ensuring a lifetime of trouble free enjoyment. 

 

 

Why use expensive leather as the base medium of choice? 

 

The high quality leather is considerably more expensive than artistic canvas and the investment in the many various tools required to produce the works is also substantial.  However these high costs are offset by the fact that once the leather has been modelled it provides the considerable pleasure of engaging the additional human sense being that of touch.

 

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There are very few 'Art on Leather' practitioners - especially compared to the number of conventional artists in the world today.  So these works are indeed rare in the art world today - especially so with regard to reproducing bespoke auto- paintings where the fine detail in certain areas - such as the wheels and radiator grilles - requires considerable experience and a serious commitment to detail and accuracy. 

 

Should you have any queries or require further information on the auto-paintings Process you are most welcome to contact me through the Contact Form.