WHERE LAND MEETS SEA

 
I work with acrylic ink and paper because I want to work into the surface and not only on the surface. 

Once a piece is finished I use a high quality clear varnish, usually mat finish, to preserve and protect it. This gives the work a robust waterproof surface, that can be wiped clean just as a canvas can, and allows me to frame the work unglazed. 

Whilst the paper is well sealed by the varnish, it will still naturally expand or contract to some degree depending on humidity so the paper is mounted to allow for this. Works on paper are frequently damaged by the acidity of unsuitable framing materials, such as tape and mount board, therefore I am careful that only acid free specialist framing materials are used. 

The use of a robust backing board provides additional protection and arguably the piece is actually more robust than a canvas, which can be easily damaged by pressure on its surface for only a few minutes. 

Glass is occasionally used when a fragile piece requires extra protection but ordinarily I prefer not to because I feel it alters the colour and the contrast of the work. Also my work is often textured and it seems a shame to not be able to touch it.

The acrylic ink I use is a permanent, archival ink that should not fade. However it is important to carefully consider where you hang the artwork. All original artwork, whether on canvas or paper and whether behind glass or not, even UV glass, will be affected by direct sunlight overtime.