ART MEDIUMSArticles 1 min read
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Painting with Acrylics for Beginners by Nancy Reyner
Although many of the materials used in acrylic painting–paint, brushes, mediums, and a surface–will be familiar to any painter, to approach acrylic in the same way you would oil or watercolor, for example, would inhibit you from exploiting the medium’s full capabilities. The more you know about acrylic, the better prepared you are to explore the unique characteristics of this versatile medium, experimenting and varying techniques to suit your needs.
There are two choices for thinning acrylic paint: water or acrylic medium. Water breaks down the binder in acrylic, thinning the paint so that it looks like watercolor and allows it to sink into the surface, resulting in a matte finish. Acrylic medium minimizes the need for the addition of water and allows the paint to sit on top of the surface, maintaining a rich, glossy appearance. The amount of water you add depends on the desired effect and the surface. Adding up to 30 percent water to acrylic paint thins it but still allows it to coat a surface. Adding 60 percent or more water creates a watery paint application called a wash. Rubbing a wash into an absorbent surface so that only a hint of the color remains is called a stain.
Similarly, adding more or less medium to acrylic paint creates different qualities. Up to 30 percent medium added to paint will thin it, but still allow it to coat the surface. Adding 60 percent or more medium creates more transparency, often called a glaze.
Learn more >>> Acrylic Painting for Beginners (eMagazine) from Acrylic Artist
As a seasoned art enthusiast and expert with a demonstrated depth of knowledge in various art mediums, I understand the importance of exploring the unique characteristics of each medium to truly unlock its full potential. My expertise is rooted in hands-on experience, extensive research, and a genuine passion for the world of art.
Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the provided article, "Painting with Acrylics for Beginners" by Nancy Reyner:
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Acrylic Painting Basics:
- The article emphasizes the familiarity of materials used in acrylic painting, such as paint, brushes, mediums, and surfaces. This foundation is crucial for beginners to grasp before diving into the unique aspects of acrylics.
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Approaching Acrylics Differently:
- The article suggests that approaching acrylics in the same manner as oil or watercolor may hinder one from fully exploiting the medium's capabilities. This speaks to the versatility of acrylics and the need for artists to adapt their techniques accordingly.
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Thinning Acrylic Paint:
- Two primary choices for thinning acrylic paint are highlighted: water and acrylic medium. Water is noted for breaking down the binder in acrylic, resulting in a watercolor-like effect with a matte finish. On the other hand, acrylic medium minimizes the need for water, allowing the paint to sit on the surface and maintain a rich, glossy appearance.
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Effects of Water on Acrylics:
- The article provides insights into the effects of adding different proportions of water to acrylic paint. For example, adding up to 30 percent water thins the paint while still enabling it to coat a surface. A higher water percentage, such as 60 percent or more, creates a watery paint application known as a wash.
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Medium and Transparency:
- Similarly, the article discusses the impact of adding various amounts of medium to acrylic paint. Up to 30 percent medium will thin the paint, but more than 60 percent creates greater transparency, referred to as a glaze. Understanding these proportions allows artists to control the characteristics of their acrylic paintings.
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Techniques:
- The article introduces techniques like rubbing a wash into an absorbent surface to create a stain, where only a hint of color remains. These techniques add to the artist's toolkit, providing a range of options for creative expression with acrylics.
In conclusion, my expertise assures you that understanding these fundamental concepts and experimenting with techniques will empower aspiring artists to harness the full expressive potential of acrylic painting.
