neon canvas

Combining watercolor and EL wire for a modern, luminous art piece

Neon Canvas explores the interplay of analog and digital mediums by integrating watercolor painting with EL wire to create a vibrant, illuminated artwork. The project juxtaposes traditional art techniques with hardware-based interactivity, resulting in a unique blend of textures and light.

Materials:

  • Art Supplies: Watercolor paints, canvas, backing cardboard
  • Electronics: EL wire, soldering tools, Exacto knife, polarized connector, inverter, power source
  • Adhesive: Hot glue gun

After painting a watercolor base, the EL wire was measured, stripped, and soldered to create a custom design. The wire was carefully hot-glued onto the canvas, following a penciled outline of the desired pattern. The flexibility of the EL wire allowed for intricate curves while maintaining its structural integrity.

The result is a vibrant, dynamic piece that combines the softness of watercolor with the bold, modern glow of neon light. This synthesis of analog and digital mediums allows for a fresh reinterpretation of traditional art forms, expanding the possibilities for personal and interactive artistic expression.

Future Directions:
Future iterations of Neon Canvas will explore multi-colored EL wire designs, sound-reactive lighting, and applications in wearable art. These advancements aim to further blur the boundaries between traditional and modern, static and interactive, analog and digital.