During the course of history, the way
artists have painted and the mediums they have used have evolved. With new
technology and changing tastes mean the paints used by artists have
diversified. We are all familiar with watercolors, oil paints etc. but there is
a lot more to explore!
As an artist, it is important to know
the right type of paint required for your artwork. Understanding
characteristics of each paint, the texture and the look it provides will help
you make the right choice.
Today we take a look at some of them!
OIL
Artists for centuries have been using
oil paint to create their pieces. This is a slow drying medium made from color
pigments suspended in oil. As it takes a long time to dry, artists can take
their time to produce a work. It can be messy at times and requires care as
there can be toxic elements, but the paint is often used to create a thick
consistency and are rich in color. Therefore, is to date loved by many.
ACRYLIC
There are several acrylic paints when
considering texture and the time it takes to dry. Acrylic paint is water
soluble, dries quickly and is nontoxic which makes it a go to choice for
painters of all skill levels. This paint holds up better than oil paint as it
doesn't crack or turn yellow. Acrylic paint is water resistant when it is
completely dry on canvas, but it is water soluble when damp which makes it
easier to clean up.
WATERCOLOR
Watercolors are typically painted on
paper and are made from pigments suspended in a water-based solution. They
remain soluble even when dry which is a good thing as artists can make
corrections even when the painting is dry. On the flip side, paintings need to
be protected.
PASTEL
The use of pastels has been popular
since the 16th century and is also known as dry painting. There
is no need to give it time to dry which makes it an easy and portable solution
for artists. The most popular are known as soft pastels which have chalk
incorporated into them. Oil pastels with a waxy consistency are also available.
These paintings are fragile, as the pigment can lift from the surface,
therefore should be handled with care.
FRESCO
This is an ancient technique which is
best known thanks to Michelangelo's iconic painting of the Sistine Chapel
ceiling. The type of painting involves mixing pigment with water and applying
it to a wet layer of plaster. The water helps the colors to merge into the
plaster which creates a permanent bond when dry.
SPRAY PAINT
Spray paint was first invented in 1949
and became quite popular in the 1970s, almost around the time graffiti artists
emerged. Spray paint can be used on plaster, brick and metal. It dries out
quickly and is weather resistant, making it a more durable choice for urban
artists. Today, there are spray paints in different colors, effects and
finishes, also different pressures and coverage. Spray paint does contain toxic
substances and is recommended for outdoor use with a mask.
INK WASH
Ink wash originates from China and East
Asia. The use of black ink in calligraphy is what led to the popularity of brush
painting using the same inks. By varying the amount of ink on the brush and the
pressure with which the stroke is applied, the end result is varied.
ENAMEL
The oil-based paint is often used by
sign painters. It dries to a hard, high gloss finish that is weather resistant.
Enamel can be used on different surfaces - glass, ceramics, metal, wood and
canvas. Enamel paint can be toxic, and it is suggested to work in a ventilated
area wearing a mask. Famous Artists such as Picasso and Jackson Pollack were
known to use commercial enamel paints in their work.
ENCAUSTIC
This is a complex technique which dates
back to Egypt and involves adding colors to hot beeswax. The paste is then
applied to wood or canvas. The liquid is then sculpted using tools. This can be
a difficult technique to master.
CHARCOAL
This is a form of dry art medium made
of organic material which are held together by gum or wax binder. Charcoal
gives a natural effect to the art. Even though it can be easily removed, it
leaves a stain on paper. Charcoal was an element using in cave paintings and
its remnants are still found in ancient caves.
GLASS PAINTING
Glass painting is a contemporary art
which has been acquired from stained glass painting which involved putting
together small colored pieces of glass. This was a common feature in windows
and doors of religious places - Church etc.
PENCIL SKETCH
Pencil sketches are highly defined and
is often used because it is efficient and simple. The graphite in the pencil
was mined during the 16th century and at the time, the artists
used natural graphite to draw. The pencil sketch was used for drawing and for
the completion to be made in other mediums and drawings completed in graphite
were quite rare back then.
COLLAGE PAINTINGS
This is an assembled creative artwork.
Collage work is done with pieces of colored or handmade paper, ribbons,
magazines etc. Techniques of collage were first used at the time when paper was
first invented in China, around 200 BC. Collage is accumulation of various
artworks into a single piece, creating a visual appeal. This is a common style
of painting among kids.
SAND PAINTING
Sand painting has various forms,
but the form which is practiced most often and is known is the quick stokes on
sand poured on a given surface, which can be changed according to the artist.
In this type of painting, controlling speed is very important. It requires a
lot of patience and can be somewhat tiresome too!
So, you see, there are so many different types and styles of painting beyond
the norm. And there are so many innovative ways of learning these styles too!
We hope you enjoyed reading this article!
Manesha Peiris (2021)
