Painter

Alicia McCarthy

Alicia McCarthy is an American painter associated with San Francisco's Mission School whose work often uses house paint, spray paint, gouache, colored pencil, and wood.

Related: Thornton Dial · Molly Zuckerman-Hartung


Alicia McCarthy quick facts

Review key details about Alicia McCarthy's career, Mission School context, house paint, spray paint, gouache, colored pencil, wood supports, and layered abstract methods.

Alicia McCarthy quick facts
NationalityAmerican
Paint mediaHouse paint · Spray paint · Gouache
Common supportsWood · Found panels · Walls
Working methodsInterlaced bands, repeated lines, hand-drawn marks, spraying, and direct painting on modest surfaces
Known forLoose woven color structures and an economical material language connected to San Francisco's Mission School

Sources: SFMOMA: Untitled and SFMOMA artist essay.

Paint types used

See the paint types documented in McCarthy's work, with links to PaintZeal references explaining each medium's properties, uses, and working characteristics.

Spray Paint

Spray paint is a liquid coating packaged in a pressurized can and applied as a fine aerosol. It creates an even finish without requiring a brush or roller.

Gouache Paint

Gouache paint is an opaque, water-based art medium made with pigment and a water-soluble binder. Traditional formulas dry to a matte finish and can be reactivated with water.

Surface types used

See the surface types documented in McCarthy's work, with links to PaintZeal references explaining how each support behaves and is prepared for painting.

Wood

Wood is a natural, porous material with grain patterns and absorbency that vary by species and cut. Its surface may also contain knots, resin, or an existing finish.

Painting Board

Painting board is a rigid artist support made from hardboard, wood, or another stable panel material. It may be sold raw or prepared with a medium-specific ground layer.