Definition of the Process, Photos and Artwork

The Ocean Wash technique is a process I began 30 years ago. In this process, the ocean assists in creating the artwork. To begin, the watercolor paper or canvas is submerged directly into the ocean waves. A layer of wet sand arbitrarily creates patterns, that adhere to the surface. After laying the surfaces on the beach, I then pour acrylic paint onto the wet sand patterns. As the paint dries, the colors blend naturally with the help of the wind and texture of the sand. The drying process takes a few days.

 

Once the acrylic Ocean Wash is dry, the excess sand is wiped away. The ocean has provided the images and inspiration, which are then further developed through additional painting techniques. The ocean helps make these decisions. After many years of experimenting, I occasionally paint the surface first or add a modeling compound to vary the possible outcomes. The artwork, along with me, the artist, is always evolving.

 

Below is an example of how the progression emerged for "Mermaid Tails"