Splatter-painting is a technique of Abstract Expressionism.
Jackson Pollock is the artist best known for the technique of painting known as Abstract Expressionism. This means that the effect of a painting is achieved through patterns, paint strokes and the use of color. It is an expression of emotion and sensory impressions. You can splatter-paint a huge canvas in two ways: with the canvas lying flat on the ground, or with it propped against a background wall. Either way, make sure to carry this out in a garage, a loft or an area with plenty of newspaper or old dust sheets around, because the paint WILL get everywhere!
Instructions
Setting Up
1. Lay the newspapers or dust sheets all around the area that you will be working in, making sure to create a much wider margin than the work area--up to 3 feet on all sides if you have space. Put on your painting smock.
2. Open the pots of paint that you will be using, set them on newspaper and put the lids out of the way. Use the metal rod to stir each pot of paint, cleaning it thoroughly with the cloth and turpentine after each use.
3. Lay your paintbrushes and straws on a table, also covered with newspaper or dust sheets.
Painting
4. Select a large paintbrush and dip it in one of the paint pots, making sure to collect a large blob of paint on the brush. Stand 3-4 feet away from the canvas, hold tightly to the brush and "hurl" the paint at the canvas so that it splatters onto the surface.
5. Experiment with different arm and wrist movements. Splatter the paint in an arc or a slicing motion across the canvas.
6. Place the canvas on the floor and scatter the paint on it in patterns and textures for a more controlled, orchestrated technique.
7. Dip a straw into one of the paints and gather a big blob on the end. Blow through the straw, scattering the paint on the canvas in smaller droplets.
