[Chris Saper]

Dear Kim,

Perhaps I am using the term "panel" a bit too loosely. When I say "panel", I mean a firm surface, either directly affixed to, or adhered on a rigid support. In opposition to the "springboardy" quality of a stretched canvas, where behind the linen lies only air.

I know many painters who are impassioned about each type of surface. Like most things, there isn't a right or wrong, just the thing that you personally prefer. I like the rigid surface, but I can name a dozen painters who hate it.