Monday, October 8, 2012

Cool art term Monday- sgraffito and a winner!


Today's term is sgraffito and I know, it sounds like I made it up but I promise it is real. It where a pointed object is used to scrape away some of the paint or clay is referring to the technique in pottery.


The term sgraffito comes from the Italian word sgraffire which means (literally) “to scratch”.


I have not used this technique in my artwork much but as a kid in pudding it was the way to go.
Actually, i think is is an interesting way add not just texture but the illusion of light.


I have seen sgraffito used to reveal and underpainting and used to brilliant effect in an oil on aluminum, where tiny glints of metal showed through.


Can you think of a way that this applies to interior design? Not necessarily scratching away but creating a design by removing material.
Did you work last week's term, chiaroscuro, into a conversation?


The winner of the painted mat from the paint a rug party is Jennifer of The Pink Pagoda!

8 comments:

Kim@Chattafabulous said...

Interesting technique and one I certainly have never heard of. Gorgeous images to illustrate your point, too! Have a good Monday, Kerry!

www.chattafabulous.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

Ive always wanted to paint a wall then scratch through it with a tool and make a design in the wet paint..so I guess I can see it's use in decor. It's kind of like scratchboard art that I used to do with my students. Very cool term, and you helped me to dust it off from the brain archives :) Have a great day and stay warm!
xo Nancy
Powellbrowerhome.com

Kristie said...

I've never heard of this technique but I rather like it. It adds dimension to the paintings. Very unusual. :)

Patty Day @Pattys Epiphanies said...

I have never heard of Sgraffito, but I don't know very much about art techniques. I love what you have done. Thanks for sharing this with us. You are extremely talented and I love your work!

Renée Finberg said...

yes i have.
it is the story of my life!!
i am always using and doing
things backwards

xox hehehe

Woodside Park said...

How cool we all now know a new word. I'll have to use it to impress Nancy Powell :) Congrats to Jennifer!

The Pink Pagoda said...

I love the art term education I'm getting here, Kerry! I think this technique is interesting. I like in best in the second example you show. And I'm thrilled to win the rug!! I can't wait to see it in person!

Vel Criste said...

wow, never knew I would learn more about art and painting with your blog! Thanks!!!! Lucky Jennifer!