Konrad Lueg
Used phosphorescent color on canvas so viewers could cast temporary shadows into the luminous painted surface.
Paint Type
Glow-in-the-Dark Paint
Glow-in-the-dark paint is a coating made with phosphorescent pigments that absorb light and release it gradually in darkness. It must be exposed to light before it can glow.
Glow-in-the-dark paint compatibility
Glow-in-the-dark paint can work on wood, metal, plastic, and ceramic when the formula approves the material, and a white or light base coat usually produces a brighter glow.
| Surface | Compatibility | Preparation | Primer | Finish | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | Good with an approved brush-on or spray formula | Use clean, dry wood and smooth rough or loose areas. | A white or light-colored base coat usually improves the glow. | Product-specific; preserve the luminous layer when adding a clear finish. | — |
| Metal | Good with a metal-approved formula | Remove rust and loose coating; clean, degrease, and dry thoroughly. | Prime bare metal as directed, then use the recommended light base coat. | Product-specific. | — |
| Ceramic | Good when the product specifically approves it | Remove dust and residue; make sure the ceramic is clean and dry. | Follow the product directions for a light base coat. | Decorative use unless the complete system states otherwise. | — |
| Plastic | Formula-specific | Identify the plastic, clean and dry it, and test adhesion first. | Use a plastic-compatible primer or base coat when required. | Product-specific. | — |
Sources: Rust-Oleum Specialty Glow in the Dark, DecoArt Americana Glow-in-the-Dark Paint, and Krylon Glowz.
Painters who used glow-in-the-dark paint
Explore painters in the PaintZeal reference who experimented with phosphorescent color.
Maceptaw Bogun
Used phosphorescent paint in Chapel In-the Fall-Wood so its daylight landscape reveals a glowing moon and night sky after the lights go out.
