Necessity is the mother of invention

Favourite Historical Figure is the inspiration for the latest 7 Dots challenge. And my choice is the incomparable Nikola Tesla.

Engineer, inventor, physicist, futurist - Tesla was, to me, the father of steampunk. His wireless power demonstrations lit up the stage. His Broadcast Tower at his laboratory was a technological marvel. And then there's the invention of AC technology. His work with Edison & electricity is what inspired me. And what does electricity do - it provides light! (click on the pics for bigger pics).... 

The base for my lighted picture is the 7 Dots Studio Dreamer collection, with City Lights being the specific paper I used - perfect for the theme. I adhered it to a thick piece of cardboard. 

It was already industrial & grungy. I added crackle paste randomly through a stencil. Then I used thick jewelry wire as the rod to hang my light bulbs using rusty wire. I also spritzed a little Lindy's Gang Bayou Boogie Gold. 

I added metal corner brads & rust paste. Plus, I used a piece of rusty screen across the bottom which is the base for my catchy phrase.  I also added brads in various places of the screen which held it in place. Of course you have to have rusty gears! 

And then there's Tesla himself. He's 3D using foam squares and his eyes light up along with the hanging bulbs. I poked holes through the canvas where his eyes and bulbs are, then pushed a couple lights together from a small battery operated string of pin lights into each hole. Everything on the back is taped down - and I can easily change the batteries! I can cover it later with another piece of cardboard if I wish. 

I hope this piece 'lights up your life' and 'sparks' your imagination to create your own historical figure canvas!