What is actually epoxy resin and what did Andy Warhol do with It?

14/06/2023

Simplified, it could be said that it is essentially a very handy adhesive. The production of epoxy resin is a process that takes place in industrial facilities, it is definitely not a substance suitable for home production. If you are considering starting to work with it, we definitely recommend buying it :)

Let's take a closer look at how it is made.

Raw Materials

The basic raw materials for the production of epoxy resin are epoxy monomers (most commonly epichlorohydrin) and compounds with low molecular weight containing polyvalent aliphatic or aromatic compounds, usually known as polyamines. These components are important for the reaction that hardens the epoxy resin.

Epoxy resin is produced by the reaction between epoxy monomers and polyamine compounds in the presence of catalysts and other auxiliary substances. This reaction creates a polymer network that causes the resin to harden and become solid.

The production of epoxy resin is a complex industrial process that requires adherence to strict quality and safety standards.

A Bit of History

Epoxy resin began to be used in art during the 20th century, specifically in the second half of the 20th century. Its popularity in art gradually grew due to its unique properties, which provided artists with new possibilities and techniques for their creation. In the 1920s and 1930s, some artists began experimenting with various types of resins and epoxy materials. However, these experiments were not yet widespread.

During the 1960s and 1970s, artists began to use epoxy resin more as a medium. Epoxy allowed them to create transparent and glossy layers on their paintings and sculptures. Pop artists, like Andy Warhol, began using epoxy resin in their paintings to achieve specific effects. For instance, Warhol used epoxy resin on his famous paintings of Campbell's Soup cans.

Gradually, epoxy resin became a popular medium among modern artists and was used in various artistic styles, including abstract art, photorealism, and pop art.

Today, epoxy resin remains a popular material for modern artists and craftsmen, who use it to create transparent layers, 3D effects, and interesting textures in their works. Essentially anything can be encapsulated in the resin, such as a flower from your first date with your life love, or the first found four-leaf clover.