Some projects are more than just paint and canvas....they hold deep meaning, emotion, and gratitude. Recently, my biological mother asked me to create a textured heart painting on canvas, and I knew immediately that this was going to be more than just an art piece. It was an opportunity to express my love and appreciation for her and, most importantly, thank her for choosing life for me.
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Starting with Inspirational Words
Before I even picked up a brush, I invited my online community to be a part of this special piece. I went live on Facebook and asked everyone to share a single word....the first word that came to mind when thinking about their own mother.
The responses poured in, creating a beautiful collection of words that captured the essence of motherhood: love, life, patience, selfless, unconditional, caring, giving....even spicy....each one a tribute to the women who have shaped our lives.
Textured Heart Canvas Thank You Note
I took these words and covered the canvas with them, letting them form the foundation of the piece. Then, I began the painting process:
I covered the entire canvas with a coat of solid black paint to serve as the foundation for a soft watercolor wash I had planned. Don't worry....the "words for mom" were documented on another piece of paper and will be attached to the back of the canvas.
Using Dixie Belle Mud for Textured Heart
I then began the heart building process using one of my favorite products.....Dixie Belle Mud. I chose white...but it also comes in black and brown.
It can be used for repairs on furniture sort of like a wood filler but I prefer to use it to create textured art. It's like playing with cake icing! I apply it with a spatula but you can use your fingers as well.
The Dixie Belle Mud is the star of the show here and what I hope you will try more than any other process of this project. Once my textured heart was completed on the canvas I allowed it to dry overnight.
Painting the Textured Heart Canvas Artwork
The backdrop of this heart is a flowy water wash that I did using several different blues and greens from the chalk mineral paint line. I just brush on and spritz with water....allowing the water to flow and drip naturally. I also used paper towels and rags to blot off excess water which also leaves interesting imprints on the canvas. I just play with this until I feel that it is done.
The heart itself was painted in a few colors of red. I also added a leopard print to it...which I later decided I didn't like and changed.
Gold-Leaf Notes of Gratitude ❤️❤️❤️
The note of gratitude was done by using a Sharpie broad tip marker.
I then traced over each letter using a leafing adhesive called Stick With Me.
This is a great product for those of you looking to try metal leafing. I painted it on and waited about 30 minutes for it to be fully tacky and ready for the gold leaf sheets.
I then simply applied gold leaf sheet over all the words and gently brushed away the leaf excess to expose the shiny gold lettering!
It is such a simple process and makes a huge impact in your art!
Finishing Touches to Make the Artwork Pop
I then decided to paint over the leopard print and just use bold reds to create a giant shiny red heart! I used a little bit of black to add depth to the outer corners of the heart.
I also outlined the heart with both black paint pen....as well as the old fashioned Slick paint in white....which leaves an elevated finish so it's great for outlining!
I liked this so much that I chose to go back and outline all of the lettering in a bright white as well...using my Sharpie paint pen in white.
And for the final touch, my favorite black and white stripes painted around the border of the canvas! I keep it simple by just free-handing these with no measuring or expectation of exactness!
The whole canvas is very whimsical and I wanted to carry that around to the sides as well. I simply paint on the white paint first and then using a 1" wide brush.....I made stripes in black all the way around.
My Texture Heart Canvas is done.....and I am pleased!
This finished piece is a visual representation of love, gratitude, and the powerful connection between mother and child.
Creating this piece was not only a gift for my mom but also a meaningful way to honor all the moms who give, nurture and love unconditionally.
This project touched me in a big way....and I hope it inspires you to reflect on the love of those in your life.
More Inspiration: Canvas Art Projects
Want to try some canvas art of your own? I have gathered some of my favorite canvas art projects for your inspiration!
Butterfly Girl on Canvas - the story of inspiration and evolution
Freda Canvas - channeling inner strength and creativity
Release - butterfly bursting off the canvas
My HeART - 2023 Riverside Retreat artwork
Llama Canvas Art - fun custom art for a tween's room
Pineapple Art - Be brave. Be Bold. Be The Best You.
Textured Heart - artwork you want to reach out and touch
Angel Wings - textured and dripping in gold
If you are feeling stuck, try my overcoming blank canvas paralysis strategies.
Click on any photo below for more up-close photos and all the design details
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