Tube Painting (acrylic and spray paint on 18"x24" panel)
Artist: John Potter
"Tube" is a vibrant contemporary painting and a key piece within an ongoing series dedicated to the artistic possibilities of linear halftones. In this body of work, these custom, structured lines are not merely a technique but the central visual language, exploring how systematic marks can build form, texture, and meaning.
The painting draws its conceptual foundation from a pivotal moment in modern history. It is inspired by the famous metaphor, “Once the toothpaste is out of the tube, it’s awfully hard to get it back in,” a phrase cemented in public consciousness during the Watergate era. This idea of an irreversible act, a point of no return, informs the artwork on multiple levels. It resonates within the chosen imagery of the paint tube itself, a vessel of potential, and echoes in the decisive, process-oriented nature of applying both line and color. Once a mark is made, it becomes a permanent part of the work’s history.
Visually, "Tube" is an exercise in controlled intensity. It employs a fiercely bright and saturated color palette, channeling the boldness and direct visual appeal found in street art to create an immediate connection with the viewer. The composition is assertive and graphic, designed to engage from across the room. Despite this powerful presence, the painting's modest scale ensures it functions as a compelling focal point that enhances, rather than dominates, a personal living or collection space.
Technique & Material
Executed with precision, the painting utilizes a combination of acrylic mediums to achieve its distinct effect. The meticulous linear halftones and bold color fields are finished with a high-gloss, clear artist's resin. This coating produces a luminous, candy-like surface that deepens the color and interacts dynamically with light.
While photographic reproductions capture the composition, they cannot fully convey the artwork's tangible presence. The resin finish creates a smooth, object-like quality that invites closer inspection. The play of light across its glossy surface and the physicality of the layered technique are essential aspects of the work, best appreciated in person as a unique artistic object.
Plunge Beach Resort
4660 El Mar Dr,
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL 33308
ON DISPLAY: NOV 01-DEC 4
RECEPTION: NOV 20, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Environment created using Dream Machine
These are some of the stages of development of the image.
Commission a custom halftone painting
This piece is part of an ongoing series. I am always glad to talk about the work.
For available work and commissions, reach out.
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.