Below is a short clip on how I begin a painting. I start by creating an abstract background. I cover my canvas with a thin coat of moulding paste, followed by automatic writing, mark-making, painting and collage. I will repeat this process 2-3 times. I allow myself to have fun, listen to my intuition, and not get attached to any particular piece of the canvas. I will begin sketching in a portrait using charcoal when I feel I have created a lot of depth and texture.