This video shows a sped up version of how I assemble my own surface to paint on. Normally I would use thicker cardboard, like an amazon box, but all I had at my apartment was recycled food boxes. I tear the boxes up into smaller pieces, making sure to build up layers without leaving straight edges exposed. I build up the edges of the shape and not the middle, to create a slope that directs the eye to the center. On my bigger pieces this is easier to see; the edges curve in like a contact lens. I use wood glue to press and secure the cardboard. (with thin pieces you don’t have to press as much, but thicker cardboard needs to be held in place until the glue is dry) After I finish this, I cover the cardboard shape with 2 layers of paper-mache, and then paint over it with gesso.
Something about tearing of the cardboard becomes very visible in the video! Consider how and why you tear. Might you cut instead of tear? What does the tear reveal? A soft edge, and also a kind of destruction in the reconstruction.
As for the paper work – this cardboard support seems very much about paper. You are remaking a support – made by multiple pieces of cardboard. Layers and layers. (Then you paper mâché – another way of building up a very paper-based support!)
I’ll be interested. to see the responses to the focus on process. You could tear into the paper mâché pieces and glue them together again. What is important to you about creating this unique support for your work? Irregular surface and shape seem very important! why?