DIY: Jackson Pollock Canvas

we were in need of some artwork for above our couch in our new apartment. its a large wall, and we have a large couch, but we did not have the funds for a large art investment - so DIY seemed like the best option. we wanted something abstract and something simple, so we turned to jackson pollock for a bit of inspiration. the whole project cost less than $100 and could not have been easier. plus, painting like a crazy person for the afternoon was totally liberating, relaxing, and fun! if you're in need of a piece of art (any size!) for a space in your home, i would recommend you take a stab at this DIY project. here's how:

first check out a few original pieces (this one hangs in the moma in nyc). if you can't view them in person, google images works just fine :)

then, head to home depot. you'll need a few bottles of sample paints (the same that you use to paint a wall). the color options are seriously endless, and the sample size containers go for $2-$3 a pop, depending on the brand and finish. I bought 6 for a 3 x 4 foot canvas which was more than enough! 

you'll need: 

1. a canvas (size can vary): $40 for a 3 x 4 foot cavas
2. sample house paints (2+ colors depending on the size of your canvas and color preferences): $2 - $3 each
3. a brush for each color $1 each
4. a tarp to line your working surface $5

find a working space and set up! wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit dirty (same goes for the space!). 

get painting! i did about 2-3 layers of each color. there were two "strokes" i used to get the below look:

"the swat" - slap the brush down about 6 inches above the canvas, almost like you are swatting a fly or hammering a nail 

"the dribble" or "the drip" - with a large amount of paint on the brush, simply move your hand in lines or circles above the canvas

honestly, whatever works! but these seemed to do the trick for me. 

ta-da!

i do think that the painting needs one splat of a fun color - don't you? i'm thinking mint, pink, or coral? maybe one of each? what do you think? then it's done! 

get painting friends!