The World from James’s Shoulders

Title: The Higher View – A Multilayer Laser Relief

Subject: James (Dad) & Cameron (Son)

Medium: 10" x 8" Multi-color Spray Painted Canvas

Hardware: 40W Diode Laser

The Concept

This piece is a tribute to the "Higher View" a father provides for his son. Using a Van Gogh-inspired aesthetic, I captured a moment of pure joy between me and my son, Cameron. The swirling sky represents the energy of life, while the composition centers on the stability of a father’s shoulders.

The Process: Uncovering the Light

To achieve this level of color depth, I used a subtractive engraving method across several different colors of paint. I layered White, Blue, Red, and Black to create a stack that the laser could "sculpt" through:

The Foundation: Started with white spray paint to ensure the brightest highlights would pop.

The Depth: Added blue and a hint of red to provide the mid-tones and a warm undertone in the shadows.

The Surface: Topped it off with solid black for the laser to penetrate.

The Burn: I inverted the image and used my 40W Diode laser at 30% power and 300 mm/s. Because the image was inverted, the laser worked hardest on the brightest spots—like our faces and the stars—vaporizing the top colors to reveal the white and blue underneath.

Technical Reflection

Using a diode laser allowed for those fine, kinetic lines in the "Starry Night" sky. The speed and power were dialed in specifically to peel back the black and red without scorching the canvas, leaving the vibrant blue and white highlights crisp and clean.

The engraving is only half the battle. To get the final look:

Cleaning: I used baby wipes to lightly lift the soot and char left by the laser. This brightens the whites and makes the blues pop without damaging the paint.

Sealing: I finished the piece with a coat of hairspray. It’s a great trick to lock in the colors, prevent smudging, and ensure the piece lasts.