Strappo

An Evolution of the Strappo; Technique Exploring Strappo Collage Transfers

Introduction to Strappo Collage Transfers

In the realm of mixed media art, techniques often evolve as artists experiment and refine their practices. One such evolution is the transition from traditional Strappo techniques to what I now refer to as Strappo Collage transfers. This blog post aims to share my journey and modifications in creating these innovative art pieces.

Understanding the Strappo Technique

The Strappo technique is a unique approach to creating monotypes using a dry acrylic transfer method. Initially, an acrylic painting is developed and painted in reverse on a clear glass plate. After the image dries, I apply successive layers of acrylic gesso to thicken the acrylic skin. This prepares the transfer process, where fresh gesso is layered onto both the back of the glass plate and the chosen receiving surface.

Bringing Collage into the Mix

With the foundation in Strappo established, I began exploring the addition of collage elements and drawing techniques into my work. By coating the glass surface with a polymer, I create a new texture that allows me to sketch gestural images using permanent markers, crayons, and lithography pencils. After this, I can reapply polymer and start layering collage components such as acrylic paint chips, which are perfect for creating floral designs. The process of alternating layers of polymer and collage materials has transformed my approach significantly.

While these creations still honor the principles of the Strappo technique, my recent adaptations allow for rich, textural interpretations that I enthusiastically call Strappo Collage transfers. This evolution showcases the endless possibilities in art-making practices.

What is Strappo? …

Strappo is the process and the image of the reverse painting on glass and then printing the DRY image onto paper.

Strappo, a monotype, forces you to reverse the concepts of foreground and background so that you need to work out basic images ahead of time. With the technique of Strappo and its immediacy, I find I rely on instinct and an emotional context created by Memory, landscape, and still-life subjects. There is a seduction to the rhythm and texture of working with the paint on glass that lends itself to figurative and abstract subjects. A Strappo has a unique surface in its tactile and visual qualities; the image is smooth because it was developed on the smooth surface of the glass. Another great advantage is that it does not require a press.