Paint in Motion: A Process Project

My favorite art projects have always been the ones that offer me creative freedom. I can still remember the excitement I felt in elementary school when the teacher gave us permission to experiment with the classroom art supplies without a specific outcome assigned. While I didn’t know the term “process art” at the time, I have no doubt that those open-ended art sessions are where I first began to trust myself to take creative risks.

Process art is an open-ended approach to creating art that emphasizes the creative process over the finished product. Process art requires the artist to follow their instincts and get comfortable with the unexpected. The focus is on the act of creating, allowing artists to experiment and explore without the pressure of creating something specific.

This video of a Holton Rower Tall Painting collaboration reminded me of those unstructured elementary school art days. I suspected the children I work with would love this concept so I modified his approach into a more youthful alternative.

This project can be messy, but the right setup will allow your artist to experience the joy of process art without the mess of a real Holton Rower artwork!

Supplies

To make a Paint Tower, you will need:

• Wood block

• Cardboard

• Wood glue (or a glue gun)

• Washable paint

• Small cups

• Tray with ridges (or a table you don’t mind getting paint on)

• School glue (optional)

Instructions

1.Glue the wood block to a piece of cardboard with wood glue or a glue gun. I used a 4x1x1 block from a craft store for this project. Any scrap of wood will do. However, part of the joy of this project is watching the paint pour down the length of the block. So a higher tower will result in a longer flow…and a greater opportunity for delight.

2.  Prepare the paint in cups by mixing 2 parts washable paint with 1 part school glue. Adding school glue to the paint allows it to flow smoothly and quickly, making it easier to pour. Choosing to use only paint without glue is also an option but best reserved for artists that have steady hands. One benefit of omitting the glue however is that the pool of paint at the base of the tower will be tighter at the conclusion of the project, but it will make for a more unwieldy flow down the tower. I’ve included photos of both processes.

Blue tray - washable paint only Red tray - 2 parts paint, 1 part school glue

3. Begin pouring the paint over the top of the tower one color at a time. Repeat again and again and again. Experiment with different color combinations. Enjoy the experience. This project truly is about the process.

Red tray - 2 parts washable paint, 1 part school glue Blue tray - washable paint only

The beauty of this project is in the joy and creativity experienced during the process. There are endless ways to expand this project by experimenting with different lengths and types of wood, or through the selection of different color combinations. There is no wrong way to explore the possibilities. This is also a great project for collaboration!