A New Surface to Paint On

I was delighted to recently discover the canvas mounted Alcotpanel (513). When I first tried it, it was mixed in with a variety of samples given to me by Artefex to try. At that time I had never heard of the Alcotpanel (Copper panels and ACM panels seem to get all the press!)

At the time I was working on a series of small works for a solo show, and found that the extra-fine weave of the cotton/polyester surface allowed me to get exquisite detail and hold the expressiveness of the brush stroke, even at a small 9”x12” scale. The hint of tooth hearkens back to the Belgian portrait-grade linens I’ve always enjoyed, but the smoothness is reminiscent of birch and mahogany panels that I’ve loved too. It is a happy medium, satisfying my love for fine texture and also that eggshell smooth surface. The aluminum composite support behind the surface is a plus, as it is lightweight and convenient for transport/shipping if you are working large as well! Dry time is slightly slower since the surface is not as porous as others. Below is a portrait I did last year on Alcotpanel 513, which illustrates a variety of finely blended passages along with some hard edges and expressive flower petals and stems.

Also I was pleasantly surprised that the Alcotpanel is optimal for acrylic and water-based media (as it is acrylic primed). I often switch to acrylic for studies – so it is a versatile surface. Below is a small 10”x8” study from life, done in 3 hours. It shows how in an abbreviated alla prima method of working, it holds the specific marks and color/value shapes beautifully.

It’s fantastic to have both the lusciousness of a woven fiber surface while also having the benefit of a rigid surface; the protection it provides your paintings, not having to worry about stretching canvas, less surface area that is exposed to air, therefore less vulnerable to oxidization and yellowing, and the list goes on.

I am looking forward to experimenting with the other two textures – the 516 (fine) and the 587 (medium)!