Beauty in simplicity

Alcohol ink art takes plenty of practice to master

BADDECK — The test of true talent is to make a skill appear easier than it is.

For alcohol ink artist Shae-Lynne MacLean of Baddeck, the simplicity in the beauty of her paintings does not reflect the time and heart poured into their creation.

“It’s a lot harder than it looks and takes a good deal of practice,” she explains.

MacLean was first introduced to the techniques and tools of alcohol ink art via an independent study at NSCC as part of her applied media and communication arts program, although she has since honed her skills over two years of careful practice resulting in gossamer-like images evocative of swirling celestial skies and gilded marble landscapes.

A MODERN MEDIUM

A relatively new medium, as the name suggests, alcohol inks are brightly coloured dye and alcohol-based fluid paints. When the alcohol evaporates, the colour remains on the surface of the art piece. Unlike with traditional acrylics, adding more alcohol ink or, in some cases, a blending solution, facilitates a reactivation of the colour allowing for endless possibilities to swirl and layer the shades and textures, building ethereal, flowy, colourinfused creations.

As the dripping colour vacillates across the canvas, MacLean finds it easy to lose herself in the practice. “When I sit down to create, I easily spend many hours on it and frequently lose track of the time.”

Her creative outlet of choice, alcohol ink art serves to relax MacLean and, occasionally, provides a few extra dollars with a sold piece. “It’s a relaxing hobby for the most part,” she says.

CREATING CAPE BRETON SKIES

Her favourite pieces are reminiscent

of Cape Breton sunsets, with glowing crepuscular shades. “I’ve done this combination of red, orange and yellow a number of times and always love how this combination turns out together, every time,” she says of the art.

Alcohol ink paintings are “for people who enjoy modern and abstract wall art,” categorize MacLean whose work has been well received in her community. “I’m grateful to be getting lots of support and wonderful feedback.”

MacLean emphasizes that the key to appreciating art is to see it in real life. Like other paintings, the allure of alcohol ink art cannot be fully captured on a computer screen.

”Pieces always look so much better in person than in pictures, especially the metallics,” she said.

Interested in taking a peek for yourself? You can view MacLean’s art on her website https://shaemaclean.wixsite.com/inksbyshae or get in touch via email at shae.maclean@gmail.com.