Two shimmering categories of paint, iridescent and interference, are used in layers one over the other, resulting in unusual rainbow pearlescent effects. See more variations using interference paints in Techniques 21, 22 and 24. Helpful tips on these exciting paints can be found in the beginning of this section.
Paint
A variety of interference and iridescent acrylic paint colors, black paint
Substrate
Any primed painting surface
Tools
Mixing palette or cups, painting or mixing knife, paintbrush (optional masking tape)
For Cleanup
Water, water container, paper towels or rags
STEP 1 Create an Iridescent Underpainting
Use any design. Here masking tape is used to mask off various stripes over a white surface. A variety of iridescent acrylic paints was then used to create this hard-edged design.
Alternatively, feel free to create any underpainting you prefer, using at least several different iridescent paints applied with brush, knife or rag. Let it dry.
STEP 2 Create an Additional Design
Create a second layer design. Here again masking tape is used for hard-edged stripes, now going horizontally.
STEP 3 Apply Interference Paints
Brush apply interference paint colors over the iridescent underpainting. In some areas apply thinly to allow the underlying iridescent to shift the interference. In other areas, apply thickly for a pearly opaque effect. Mix in a small amount of black with some interference colors to create a more intense and opaque color.
Using a striped grid pattern shows off the variety of effects obtainable using interference over iridescents. Continue adding new layers and new mixtures as preferred. Each layer should be dry to the touch before applying the next.
Interference Violet is applied over Iridescent Gold for a softly illuminated background with collaged papers in decorative designs.
INDIGENOUS DREAMS
Patricia Forbes
Acrylic and paper collage on paper
16" × 16" (41cm × 41cm)
Interference Violet and Interference Blue are applied thickly to create a shimmering white dress. Bronze and silver paint are used in the background. Gold leaf is used for the dress decorations and in the background’s upper left corner.
INCUBATION OF POSSIBILITY
Catherine Molland
Acrylic, oil, mixed media and gold leaf on canvas
24" × 36" (61cm × 91cm)