Art On The Water - Frequently Asked Questions - By Salina Kalnins

Q: WHAT IS A NAUTICAL CHART PAINTING?
A: A nautical chart painting is a one-of-a-kind, acrylic/mixed media painting that is hand-painted onto the surface of actual nautical charts. Fine details are sometimes finished with graphite and colored pencil on top of the acrylic painting.

Small charts are printed on paper and framed behind glass. Larger charts are printed on gallery-wrapped canvas.

The boat or scene is painted directly onto the chart.

Q: HOW IS A NAUTICAL CHART PAINTING CREATED?
A: A nautical chart or map is selected as the background for painting. The scene and its elements are then hand-painted onto the surface of the chart.

Q: WHAT KIND OF PAINT IS USED?

A:  Acrylic paint is used for the majority of  large paintings on canvas. Watercolors and acrylics are used on the smaller paintings on paper. As the bulk of the painting nears completion, the fine details are often completed with colored pencil,and/or graphite to replicate as much detail as possible.

Q: WHAT ARE THE CHARTS MADE OF?

A: The charts or maps are either printed on paper or on canvas.

The paper charts measure appoximately 13x17" and are matted and framed when completed. There is only this one size done on paper.

The canvas charts are gallery-wrapped starting at around 20x24" up to 60".

The scene is painted on top of the chart.

Q: CAN I HAVE MY OWN CHART PAINTING CREATED, WITH MY BOAT OR MY FAVORITE PLACE PAINTED ONTO A CHART OF MY CHOOSING?

A:  Absolutely! Order as soon as possible!  Click here  for more information or to learn how to order a painting created especially for you or a loved one.