My first time using a black, Elvis toned Canvas.

We’ve all seen those Elvis paintings from the early ’70s—Elvis on a black velvet canvas, bursting with bright, gaudy colors. Enough to make you want to... well, let’s just say they’re a product of their time.

Pollock, on the other hand, often toned his canvases with black paint, much like I did here. It creates a dramatic foundation that can really set the tone for the layers to come.

When I started this painting, my first color—green—disappeared into the black base. It turns out the paint I used didn’t have much pigment. Lesson learned: you get what you pay for. When it comes to artist paints, pigment load is everything. High-quality pigments cost more, and with all the Hazmat regulations manufacturers have to deal with, it’s no wonder those costs are passed on to us. While I can manage, I know many artists have to be frugal, always searching for that perfect balance between quality and affordability. It’s the ultimate artist’s dream, isn’t it?

Anyway, this photo shows the painting framed but not yet varnished or gifted. I find the colors incredibly soothing—what do you think? Would you want a painting like this, but maybe with green swapped out for blue, purple, or even red? I’m really proud of this one, and my friends seem to agree!