2nd year creative art Facilitation; Canvas print of photographss

We decided to offer the activity of creating a canvas print of photographs as we felt that it would suit the age group of the people who we were recruiting for the activity. 

We decided to use a canvas, having previously used papers of different textures as well as cardboard we discovered through various trials that the canvas was the medium best suited to this activity as it was the most durable and gave the best effect. We also trialled the activity using printed wallpaper which was not successful. We also used gel medium, In order to stick the chosen photographs to the canvas. Photographs were printed onto a4 paper and we used a mixture of black and white and coloured photographs. 

The gel medium was applied generously to the photograph on the printed side of the photograph and then placed facing downwards onto the canvas. The canvas was then dried using a hairdryer to speed up the drying process and when it was completely dry the canvas was dabbed with water which soaked into the photograph. 

The paper was then removed from the canvas gently, making sure not to tear the image. When the paper was removed it revealed the image which had been printed onto the canvas. The canvas was then dried for a second time to remove any excess water and we subsequently used a light covering of oil on the canvas which brightened the colours of the images making it more clear.