Magnificence, 24 x 24 inches, repurposed acrylic latex paint on canvas |
Cassandra has a long-standing interest in using nontoxic and eco-friendly materials in her artwork, and to that end, she uses leftover acrylic latex paint – better known as house paint – in her contemporary abstract paintings. She rescues the paint from recycling centers in the Los Angeles area before it is sent to landfills, and also comb the “mistint” shelves of home improvement stores.
By visiting these outlets regularly, Cassandra has assembled a palette filled with unusual colors. She enjoys the challenge of working with the colors that she finds, rather than colors of her choice. Once a color is gone, it is unlikely that she will find the exact same color again. House paint comes in a variety of finishes, including flat, satin, semi-gloss, and eggshell, that add depth and texture to the surface of her paintings.
Cassandra has developed several methods of working with the paint, including pouring, pulling, pressing, and dripping it onto canvas. While the paint is wet, she often uses tools, washes of water, or her fingers to create imagery. The paint dries slowly, and in the process of drying, serendipitous things sometimes occur, such as bubbles that pop to reveal another color below.
Cassandra is interested in observing the effects of manipulating the paint in unusual ways. "I push the materials to the max, because I want to see what happens. I'm looking for unexpected and curious effects, and it's the process of discovery that intrigues me." |
