METHOD

Leon Corsten’s current works are created using mixed techniques and are based on acrylic paint.

Acrylic paint
Acrylic paint uses the same pigments as, for example, oil paint. The only difference is the binding agent; in this case, a synthetic resin. Synthetic resin is impenetrable and dries very quickly. Many artists prefer acrylic paint to oil paint because of how much more quickly it dries. Moreover, it is virtually odourless, while oil paint smells strongly of turpentine. Painting with acrylic paint is wonderful as it allows you to continue working while inspiration strikes; each layer drying quickly enough to add the next layer or detail.

Foundation: Illustration board
Leon generally uses a SchoellersHammer illustration board or canvas for his work.
Illustration boards are mostly used for printing techniques such as silk screening. The 4G illustration board by SchoellersHammer has the highest gradation for resistance to aging, meaning that colour does not fade over time. 4G is thicker than paper and is specially glued. Its sturdiness makes it more durable than paper and it does not buckle when a great deal of paint is applied.
The advantage of illustration boards as opposed to canvas is the ease of use when creating detail, primarily with stroke and gum techniques. It is lighter and thinner than panel, making it easier to frame and to hang.

Foundation: Canvas
Leon Corsten also creates work on canvas. These canvases are made of high quality cotton or linen with an identical structure. All canvases are pre-treated with gesso (gesso is a primer). This primer ensures a proper binding and colour reflection of the paint.

The wooden stretcher bars together form the framework for the canvas. The canvas is stretched on this wooden frame. Spaces have been created in the corners on the inside, in which wooden spacers can be used to easily restretch the canvas if required. Leon primarily uses canvas on a wooden frame with a thickness of 3.5 - 4 cm. This provides extra sturdiness and a spacious feel to the art.

Varnish
All of Leon’s work is varnished unless otherwise stated or agreed. The varnish prevents damage to the paint. Cleaning must be carried out very carefully, preferably only when absolutely required. The client will be told about this as after-care.