This is a recycled canvas, and I use recycled canvases when I don’t have a high level of confidence in the outcome of a planned pour. Interestingly enough, many of these experiments turn out to be keepers. The burnt umber is what brings me into this one, but the metallics are definitely telling the story. I like this one from at least two different orientations.
Postscript: A few days later this has dried, and sadly there are visible ridges throughout as a result of the first/original layer of paint. Re-using a painted canvas carries this risk, among others. I would say half the time there’s no issue, but all you can do is keep your fingers crossed. Another good reason to always photograph work soon after painting — one never knows what may happen in life.
I’m looking for the unexpected. I’m looking for things I’ve never seen before.
Robert Mapplethorpe