Painting a statue by Alexander Cherkov, from The introductory book to the world of art "sculpture, painting, drawing and not only"
A ceramic sculpture is often covered with different glazes, with a matte or glossy texture, in a solid or colored color, with or without different effects. This method requires further burning of the sculpture and allows for a beautiful and very durable layer of the sculpture. But in my opinion, glaze causes the loss of natural character. While adding beauty, it reduces the natural expression. I suggest a fairly simple method of painting a sculpture to give the clay sculpture a look of a different material, nobler than clay and plaster - for example wood or bronze.
We will move on to the example of painting a statue Natural ceramic clay In an effect reminiscent of "mahogany".
Step 1. In a 1: 1 ratio mix Gouache paint Red and plastic glue and just painted the sculpture evenly. Dry well (1-2 hours). If necessary, repeat the painting.
Step 2. Mix the same amount of Oil paint Black, linseed oil for painting and turpentine and evenly painted the sculpture on top of the red paint layer.
Immediately after painting, wipe off the excess black paint with a dry cloth and brush from prominent surfaces of the sculpture. Achieve graded transitions from black in deep places to dark red on prominent surfaces. Dry well (2-3 days).
Step 3. Using the "dry brush" method (without the use of thinners) add a lighter and warmer color to the exposed surfaces (in this case, a dark orange color). If it comes out too light, remove excess paint with a dry cloth. Dry well (one week).
Step 4. After complete drying, apply a uniform layer of ointment containing paraffin or Dedicated wax for sculptures. After thorough drying (2-3 hours), you must rub the protruding surfaces with a soft cloth, preferably a woolen cloth.
More coloring examples: