Paint Chip Pixelations
2011
Gold jump rings, Paint sample cards from Bunnings
"Paint Chip Pixelations" isn't your typical artwork – it's a whimsical journey through the world of pop art and DIY creativity. A 2-metre square sculpture made entirely of paint sample cards you'd find at your local hardware store. Each card meticulously cut into circles and linked together by gold jump rings. The result? A 40x40 grid of 1600 "pixels" that magically come together to form the unmistakable face of Marilyn Monroe, à la Andy Warhol.
You might be wondering what sparked this unusual creation. Well, let's just say it involved a fair share of experimentation and a few too many trips to the paint aisle. But hey, who said art had to follow a straight line? Sometimes, inspiration strikes in the most unexpected places – like the paint section of a hardware store.
"Paint Chip Pixelations" isn't the first time I've dabbled in this unique medium. Back in 2011, I created my very first Marilyn piece using the same method only slightly smaller at 32x40. It was a hit, and it sold faster than you can say "pop art." But I liked it so much that I decided to make a second version – this time, one I could keep for myself. I've since created two more designs using the same method, one selling to a collector and one to decorate my own home.
And to my surprise and delight, "Paint Chip Pixelations" was honoured with the award for the 3-dimensional category at the Joondalup Community Art Exhibition in 2011.
This piece is more than just a quirky conversation starter – it's a nod to the pop art movement, a celebration of creativity on a budget, and a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. So next time you're browsing the paint section, take a second look at those colour swatches – you might just find your next masterpiece.