Lighting and Color
Although the murals could be highlighted with paint and color, most of
the sculptures I've done have been painted the same color as the
surrounding wall. This is an advantage should you decide to
change wall colors, you just paint over the mural. The murals rely
on textures and shadows to create the dramatic effect. Lighting is
critical to get the most of your sculpture. Lighting from either side, top
or bottom will enhance the shadows. Light pointing directly at the
sculpture will tend to eliminate shadows and reduce the effect. If you are
planning on including a mural in your new construction or adding to an
existing wall, consideration should be given as to how best light the
artwork to get the best effect. I can suggest lighting options. I would also
like to know how it is going to be lit before I begin the sculpture so I
can create the most dramatic appearance.
Wall color also has a big influence on the finished
product. Lighter colors work the best in that they provide the contrast
between raised surfaces and the shadows. Darker colors tend to diminish
the affects of the shadows and the sculptures will appear to"sink"
back into the wall. However I have done some murals on dark colored
walls and highlighted the raised areas creating a rather dramatic effect
also.