Infrastructure Canvas vs. Traditional Stretched Canvas
Both Infrastructure Canvas (IC) and traditional stretched canvas are gallery-wrapped and available in either primed or raw options. However, there are significant differences in construction, durability, and functionality that set them apart.
Construction
Traditional Stretched Canvas:
Uses a custom-shaped profile to keep the canvas elevated off the wooden frame.
Employs an open frame construction without additional internal support.
Infrastructure Canvas (IC):
Uses standard off-the-shelf pine lumber, which adds to its unique, utilitarian nature.
Features a foam insert that fully supports the canvas and maintains the overall shape of the stretcher frame.
Stretcher assemblies use pocket screw construction for enhanced strength and to maintain square corners, with the same method applied to cross-bracing. This ensures the sides remain parallel.
Durability
Traditional Stretched Canvas:
Over time, the canvas may loosen due to handling or during the painting process, requiring periodic re-tightening.
The open frame design allows the canvas to flex, which can loosen the material. It also increases the potential for “ghosting” of cross-bracing under certain painting techniques.
Infrastructure Canvas (IC):
Once stretched, the canvas rarely, if ever, needs re-tightening.
The foam insert prevents the canvas from being depressed, eliminating the risk of stretching out. This design mimics the stability of painting on wood but without the added weight.
Functionality and Benefits
Traditional Stretched Canvas:
Lacks additional support, which can limit certain painting techniques.
More susceptible to denting, tearing, or other damage during transport or handling.
Infrastructure Canvas (IC):
The foam insert supports the work, making it ideal for techniques that require a firm surface, such as taping, drawing, scraping, spreading, encaustic painting, and applying heavy clear coats.
The foam provides added protection to the painting during transport, reducing the likelihood of dents or tears.
Easier to achieve precision with certain techniques due to the stabilized surface.
Summary
While traditional stretched canvas offers a lightweight, open-frame design suitable for many applications, Infrastructure Canvas stands out with its innovative foam support, superior durability, and versatility. These features make IC an excellent choice for artists seeking a stable, resilient surface that mimics the benefits of wood while retaining the flexibility and feel of canvas.
For more information about infrastructure Canvas:
Email us at steven@infrastrucuturecanvas.com or call 414-559-0935