Translucent backdrop

Translucent Backdrop

4' x 6' backlit painting based on an MGM studios backdrop that was used in the 1962 film called "Two Weeks in Another Town". Saved by the Art Directors Guild: Backdrop Recovery Project. This was made using an old school scenic painting technique that involves creating a background by first painting the front in a realistic but efficient manner. Then flipping the painting over to darken all areas save those you wish light to pass through for a glowing effect when illuminated from behind. This allows one to use the same backdrop for a day-time scene as well as a night-time scene.

Translucent Backdrop Progress Shots

These are the steps that I took to paint the project you see above. Feel free to click through and view its progression and my reference.

Original backdrop lit up from behind

Final test in illuminating the back of my painting. The whiter areas are backed with silk whilst the other areas are ones I left not "blacked-out" or very lightly painted.

This is the original backdrop which was used in the movie. Our class had the unique opportunity to see it up close and in person. I thought I'd be a fool if I didn't take the opportunity to do a copy whilst I had the chance to see the real deal.

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Some close ups

Here are some closer details of this painting

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Roxolana

Visual Artist with an Affinity for Authenticity