Artist Spotlight: Terri Malloy
Every fluid artist has a story about the moment they discovered the magic of paint pouring. For Terri Malloy, that discovery led to a creative journey filled with experimentation, learning, and artistic growth. Like many artists, she has embraced both the challenges and rewards that come with fluid art, developing her skills while finding joy in the unexpected results that make each piece unique. In this Artist Spotlight, Terri shares her experiences, favorite techniques, and the inspiration that continues to fuel her creativity.
Hometown: Herndon, Virginia
Can you tell us a bit about your background as an artist? How did you first get started with paint pouring?
I began my art career as a sculpture artist, raising money for Greyhound rescues. Over the years, I’ve worked with acrylics, water color and colored pencil. My new love is Mandala Dot Painting.
I discovered paint pouring as I was researching ways to capture the motion and energy of greyhounds running. My first pour was on November 10, 2017 and I haven’t stopped pouring since.
What draws you to the medium of paint pouring? What do you enjoy most about it?
I love how every pour is different even when you use the same color combinations.
I enjoy trying new techniques and watching the transformation as the paint is tipped or blown with a straw or hairdryer. Everyday is a new experience with pouring.
Describe your creative process when approaching a new paint pouring project. Do you plan your compositions in advance, or do you prefer to let the process guide you?
I’ve been pouring a lot of bigger furniture pieces this year. When I look at a piece, a picture appears in my mind of how I want it to look. The vision guides the color pallet and techniques I will use.
Of course, you can have a vision but once the paint starts flying it has a mind of its own. I did a 48″ round glass patio table this year.
I poured and resined the table 3 times before it turned out perfect. It was a great learning experience, especially in removing cured and semi-cured resin.
The biggest thing i learned was to try a new resin on a smaller piece first to make sure it works as advertised.
Do you frequently use specific techniques or methods in your paint pouring work? Could you walk us through one of your favorite techniques?
I love the flip cup, especially for creating cells. I like to use many layers in the cup and I pour the paint down the side of the cup to ensure it lays on top. I also put down a black or white flood coat first to help the paint in the cup spread out. Once the cup is flipped, I let it sit for a minute before I lift it up. I also use a heat gun to help the cells come out more.
Right now, I’m playing with a new technique to create chameleon cells. The paints only have Liquitex pouring medium added. You do a flip cup and then put some coconut milk hair serum in a cup. Then take a toothpick and dip it in the serum and start making dots all over the canvas and watch the chameleon cells start appearing.
What inspires your artistic style and choice of colors? Do any particular themes or motifs recur in your work?
I’ve been traveling around the country in my RV full-time for 10 years now. I find my color pallets and themes are driven by the area that I’m in.
For example, when I’m in Florida, the color pallet and theme is mainly ocean oriented. Here in Arizona, I’m using a lot more aqua, turquoise and reds.
Can you share a memorable experience or a significant breakthrough moment you’ve had in your paint pouring journey?
When I first started pouring, I found using rectangle canvases for my running greyhound pieces were the perfect choice. I did a small flip cup at one end and tipped the canvas so it ran down to a point. I then added waterslide decals of running greyhounds. It created the effect I had been looking for to capture the motion, energy and beauty of greyhounds running. I remember being so thrilled with those pieces.
How do you overcome creative blocks or challenges when working on a project?
Most of the time, I put the piece aside and let it sit until a new inspiration hits of how to finish it. The table was a perfect example of this. I started it in June. Sometimes, it sat for weeks while I figured out the next thing to try at how to save it. A thought would come to me and I would research it and try it and then wait and try something else. It was definitely a creative journey. I finished it in October and it sold within 2 weeks. My patience paid off and I learned a lot of new things along the way.
Do you have any favorite tools or materials that you always keep in your paint pouring arsenal? What are they, and why do you love them?
I’d say my heat gun and blow dryer with the narrow attachment are must haves. I also always use floetrol, mainly because it stretches the amount of paint without diluting the color. A must have if you’re teaching classes as it’s a lot cheaper than paint.
How do you know when a paint pouring piece is finished? What criteria do you use to evaluate your work?
I really just get a clear message that it’s done. The hard part is listening to the message and to make myself stop playing with it.
What advice would you give to aspiring paint pouring artists who are just starting out?
Go to thrift stores and garage sales. You can get a lot of different canvas pictures and different items cheap to pour on. You dont need to paint over whats on the canvas as the pour will be thick enough to cover. Also, try any type of paint to pour with. I use house paint, spray paint, tempura, cheap acrylics. Ask friends and neighbors if they have any paint they’d like to get rid of. You will learn a lot.
Are there any upcoming projects, exhibitions, or collaborations you’re excited about and would like to share with our readers?
Since I’ve been on the road and living in 200 sq ft for so long, I’ve never been able to create enough inventory to do shows.
However, I do teach classes in my new studio space in Sonoita, Arizona. I teach paint pouring, Mandala Dot Painting and Watercolor.
You can plan a friends day out which will include creating a piece of art, lunch and/or wine tasting right next door at Sunset Ride Winery.
Lastly, where can we find more of your work or connect with you online?
You can follow me on Facebook on my page Greysful Art. You can also message me at 802-579-5155 or email me at tm*******@***oo.com with questions or to book a class.
Finding Joy in the Creative Process
Terri Malloy’s artistic journey is a wonderful reminder that growth often comes from embracing both successes and mistakes along the way. Her passion for learning, willingness to experiment, and appreciation for the creative process have helped shape her work and continue to inspire those around her. As she creates new pieces and explores new possibilities within fluid art, her enthusiasm for the craft remains evident. We look forward to following Terri’s continued artistic journey and seeing what she creates next.
Join Our Artist Spotlight Program!
Are you a talented Fluid Artist looking to share your passion and creativity with the world? We’d love to feature you in our Artist Spotlight program! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out on your artistic journey, we want to showcase your unique style and story. If you’re interested in being featured, simply reach out to us through our contact page. Let’s shine a spotlight on your artistry together!
