About
Pi Luna originally started as an oil painter. Over time, she developed sensitivities to the chemicals in the paint and needed to find a non-toxic alternative. She experimented with many materials, including acrylic, watercolor, encaustic, and mixed media. Nothing seemed to click.
One day, Pi took a collage class. Instead of cutting out pictures from magazines, she wanted to create her own imagery, just as in her painting. She started cutting shapes and colors instead. She used them to form her own imagery.
She discovered that if she cut the pieces small enough, she could achieve an effect similar to oil paint. Overtime she developed the style she uses today.
Education
Pi has a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Art from Goddard College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Expressive Arts from Prescott College. Prior to college, she studied at the Minnesota River School of Fine Art, where she learned to paint and draw realistically.
Q&A
What is the overall process?
Pi creates a sketch to layout the overall composition. Then she layers the papers on top. She starts with large shapes and then adds the smaller shapes on top. The result is a lot of fun textures.
What kind of glue is used?
She uses a clear acrylic medium as her glue. To finish each piece, she uses an archival UV spray varnish.
What kind of paper is used?
Pi uses recycled magazines to create her collages. The magazines are donated by her followers.
What source images does Pi use?
Pi's imagery comes from a combination of photos she takes while in nature, and her own imagination. She likes to blend reality and imagination in each piece to get a unique look and feel.
How long does a piece take?
The time depends on the size. An 8 x 10-inch piece can take two full days to complete. Larger pieces can take up to a week or longer.