The development of an idea

Mark E Smith

Stage 1

I take an interesting area of a sketch previously made in felt tip pens and focus on it, the more random and non specific the better.

Stage 2

I begin to develop that area. Experiment with other colours etc, keeping it simple at this stage.

Stage 3

I Combine different elements from other sketches previously made, then shuffle them about in different ways to find a sense of cohesion and balance. This process continues until completion of the work.

Stage 4

When the image begins to suggest a familiar or semi representative form, I begin to break the image down in to a more abstract arrangement

Stage 5

The development of an idea can change dramatically, I let the energy and play take control. Before you can tame a good idea, you must let it run wild!

Stage 6

I reach a point where the image expands, new space is formed, the box gets bigger and so does the context of the idea. I can now begin to finalise an idea from which to paint from.

Final stage

The image once again evolves in the painting process, where all serious changes and development is made. This is the painting in full completion.

A Sliding Velvet Tongue Slips In To My Melting Mind

Acrylic on canvas 150 x 145 cm

Mark Elliott Smith2014