Dark rebel: 9 ways to explore your dark side

As you know, recently I've been exploring my "dark" side. Dark colours tend to recede and serve as an awesome backdrop for your focal point. Here are some ideas for the dark rebel in you...*winks*

My obsession with Art Anthology paints

1. Go for black and metallic silver.

Even if you are going dark, throw in texture and it will add depth and mystery to your project. The base of this canvas was created with layers of modeling paste, fiber paste and stencils. Everything was painted black first before finishing with a coat of metallic silver paint with bits of the black base showing. All the trims are in similar tones with their own tactile quality to create depth and interest.

My "dark" side...on canvas

2. Bright colours pop on a dark background.

The texture on the background was created with fiber paste and stencils and painted black. Liquid acrylic paint colours were dripped down for the bold pops of colour. The embellishments are in matching hues with different textural properties like the soft pig, the metal frame and the paper umbrella.

Cherished treasures mixed media canvas for Imaginarium Designs

3. Create depth with a dark colour.

Here the black was used as an accent to create depth for the dimensional elements and add an air of sophistication to the piece. Try painting with glazes so the metal embellishments really stand out.

Two-way board for Xyron and Paper Smooches

4. Try chalkboard art.

Dark colours can be fun too. Like a dual purpose board - pinboard on one side and chalkboard on the other.

The elevator family selfie mixed media canvas

5. Use black lace for classic sophistication.

A black and white photo stands out on a textured black mat of lace. Keep the rest of the colours subdued and the eye will naturally be drawn to your focal point.

Birthday party layout with Xyron and Out on a Limb Scrapbooking

6. A dark base makes bright photos pop.

Bright and happy birthday photos can really stand out when you use a dark brown base that doesn't compete with the colours on your photos.

Apologies...this canvas just got picked up for publication..

7. Mix up textures to create interest.

This simple canvas is all about textures...the burlap, the lace, the crochet bloom and trim, the wood ticket, the pearls, the butterfly bling and the glittered chipboard create visual interest by moving the eye across the elements.

Why I love working on canvas...

8. Create an artsy background.

There's a myth that one must use bright colours when it comes to scrapping photos of children. Try a "darker" colour palette to make the photo stand out more.

The embellished black wood monogram

9. Go for tone-on-tone.

There's something dark and mysterious about black and tone-on-tone textures. Mix the hard...leather and metal...with the soft...fabric bloom and lace.

There you have it. 9 ways to explore your dark side...which is your fave? 




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