Hello everyone,
I’m currently working on a series of paintings using water from the Dead Sea. The surfaces I’m experimenting with include 300g cotton paper, raw cotton canvas (without gesso or adhesives), and copper plates. My pigments are mostly Sennelier copper pigment no. 036 with a tempera medium, along with some black ink. In certain areas I also add apple cider vinegar.
What fascinates me in this process is the transformation of copper towards greenish tones — almost like a return to its mineral essence. The challenge I’m facing, however, is related to the unique nature of Dead Sea water: the paintings don’t seem to reach a final “dry” state, even after months. Whenever there is humidity in the air, they start dripping again.
I’m wondering if there might be a way to stabilize or “fix” the works while keeping the materiality and colors visible. Ideally, I would like to interfere as little as possible with the living quality of the material. I thought about options like wax or damar resin, as one would use a varnish, but I’m concerned these might create opaque layers that would obscure the surface.
Since Dead Sea water is about ten times saltier than any other sea, I’m curious to hear if anyone has experience or ideas about how to approach this. I’d love to learn from your perspectives, both artistic and scientific.
Thank you so much in advance for your insights