Painting of a Tongue

Tongue Painting (acrylic and spray paint on 18"x24" panel)

Artist, Illustrator: John Potter

This original painting, titled “Tongue” presents a set of classic wind-up chattering teeth, reimagined with an exaggerated, lolling tongue. The piece belongs to a distinctive series dedicated to the exploration of linear halftones, a specialized technique where structured line systems are used to create tonal shading and depth. As the third major work in this ongoing investigation, it pushes the boundaries of how line can define form and texture.

The composition originated from an earlier sketch that found its perfect resolution within this series. A central aim of the work is to achieve a dynamic equilibrium, where the precision of the custom line work and the boldness of the color palette share equal importance in constructing the final image. This harmonious balance invites the viewer to appreciate both the graphic structure and the chromatic energy simultaneously.

In subject and style, “Tongue” deliberately engages a playful, irreverent, and youthful spirit. It draws intentional inspiration from the raw, expressive vocabulary of street art, channeling its edge and immediacy into a meticulously crafted fine art context. The familiar, humorous toy becomes a vibrant icon, celebrating unspoken expression and kinetic potential.

Technique & Material

Executed on a professional-grade panel, the painting combines the fluidity of acrylic resin spray paint with the deliberate control of brush and airbrush applied acrylics. This hybrid approach allows for both expansive, saturated fields of color and intricate, razor-sharp linework. The artwork is sealed with a high-gloss, clear artist’s resin, resulting in a luminous, candy-like finish that is integral to its visual impact.

This pristine, glass-like surface interacts dynamically with ambient light, creating a depth and vitality that photographs can suggest but not wholly capture. The tactile, polished presence of the original piece is an essential aspect of the viewing experience.

PAINTINGS:

PORTFOLIOS

• Illustration Portfolio: Start here for custom illustration and book covers. You can also browse illustrated maps and architectural rendering.
• Fine Art: I offer original paintings and drawings, including my Custom Halftone Series. You will also find mural work here.
• Graphic Design & Motion: View my graphic design portfolio. After that, explore motion design and animated illustrations.
• Maps by application: I create illustrated maps for boat shows, resorts, marinas, real estate, transportation, transit and parking, towns and cities, parks, and wayfinding.
• Additional project types: I also produce cover illustration, vehicle and vinyl wraps, proposal renderings, and street art.
• Illustration methods: My techniques include vector, isometric and axonometric, painting, black and white, GeoData maps, overhead maps, and custom halftones.
• Software portfolios: I work primarily in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, SketchUp Pro, and Adobe InDesign. For motion projects, I use Premiere Pro and After Effects. You can watch my demo reel here.