Painting with Fire: Artist Burns Detailed Drawings in Soot

Craft & Design
Painting with Fire: Artist Burns Detailed Drawings in Soot

Artists have used many methods and techniques to create their one of a kind images and while some of those may be unusual (see Jackson Pollock), nothing compares to using a technique known as ‘fumage’- using fire to create impressions. More specifically, smoke from candles, kerosene or other source is used to create soot in which to etch a picture out of. The technique has been around for some time but was made popular by in the 1930’s by renowned artist Wolfgang Robert Paalen.

Spazuk’s ‘Chuck 3’ consists of multiple pieces of paper mounted on wood and runs $6,000 to own.
Spazuk’s ‘Chuck 3’ consists of multiple pieces of paper mounted on wood and runs $6,000 to own.

 

Spazuk uses the flame of a candle or torch and holds it close to canvas to create the base for his artwork. He then creates his images out of the soot using various paintbrushes or bird feathers to visualize his images, the results are astounding and very detailed. His artworks are incredibly detailed and intricate in their designs. For more information on his works, please visit his website here. Those interested in purchasing some of his creations can visit this link

French-Canadian artist Steven Spazuk uses a technique known as ‘fumage’ to create his incredible images
French-Canadian artist Steven Spazuk uses a technique known as ‘fumage’ to create his incredible images

 

0 thoughts on “Painting with Fire: Artist Burns Detailed Drawings in Soot

  1. Garret Hoffman says:

    now I’m curious how he keeps the image from rubbing off over time… does he use some sort of sealant at the end? o_0

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