Barbara Jewell Paintings on Masa paper Wall Art

Paintings on Masa paper Wall Art

These paintings are done on Japanese rice paper, called "Masa" paper, a thin paper that is smooth on one side; rough on the other. It is first crinkled up into a ball; dipped in water and squeezed in order to make the "crinkles" permanent. When partially flattened, watercolor paint is "dropped" on it and allowed to run into the creases. This paper is finally glued onto watercolor paper; smoothed out, brushed over lightly to spread and blend colors, then allowed to dry overnight with weights or clips along the sides to keep it flat. The artist may have a definite idea as to the subject, in which case crinkles and colors may be paced accordingly. If not, the colors and shapes which appear more randomly, may suggest the composition!