Acrylics are now being used by many artists although there was some prejudice against using them rather than oils for a while. They have certain qualities that artists appreciate such as the fact that they dry so quickly. This means they do not have to wait so long to apply a second layer of paint. These paints are also very versatile and can be used in many different ways by an acrylic paint artist.
Acrylics were not originally created for artists but for painting houses. However, artists soon became aware of their interesting qualities and began using them. This caused manufacturers to make changes to their products. Over the years, the quality of these paints has improved dramatically. This has given artists the opportunity of using an amazing array of colors to paint with greater tonality and richness.
Any type of surface may be used, as long as it is non shiny and grease free. Stone, wood, glass and paper are all used although stretched canvas and paper remain the most popular. Artists are continually experimenting with new surfaces, creating new techniques and producing inspiring results.
Acrylics lend themselves to a variety of different styles. They can be mixed with water and used like water colors. If a thicker texture is desired, they are even applied straight from the tube. Some artists produce abstract works with lots of depth and texture whereas others create more traditional paintings. Subjects are very diverse and traditional landscapes, impressionistic landscapes, wildlife studies and portraits are just some of these.
These paints dry much quicker than oils. Layering is easy as the first layer dries quickly. As it is water resistant, it does not soften when another layer is added. This means that paintings can be finished at a quicker rate. Retarders can be added to slow down drying time if necessary when using techniques like blending.
Many different techniques and methods are possible with acrylics as they are extremely versatile. Artists use different brushes and other tools to create the effect they are looking for. A sponge is often used to create an irregular pattern. Using a stiff, brittle brush and dabbing on the paint adds depth and texture. A small, pointed brush is suitable for adding detail and creating more definition.
There are numerous brands of acrylics being sold today. Every artist has a brand they prefer, largely dependent on style and method used. Some of these paints offer more saturated, intense colors. The drying time too varies from brand to brand. Consistency is also different with some offering more fluidity and others being like soft butter. All of these paints are long lasting and are not subject to fading, yellowing or becoming brittle as they age.
The works produced by artists using acrylics are sold at many galleries and online stores. This has made them far more accessible to the general public than ever before and enabled many more artists to actually make a living from what they are doing. Although certain galleries are still prejudiced against the use acrylics, still believing them to be inferior, this attitude is fast changing.
Acrylics were not originally created for artists but for painting houses. However, artists soon became aware of their interesting qualities and began using them. This caused manufacturers to make changes to their products. Over the years, the quality of these paints has improved dramatically. This has given artists the opportunity of using an amazing array of colors to paint with greater tonality and richness.
Any type of surface may be used, as long as it is non shiny and grease free. Stone, wood, glass and paper are all used although stretched canvas and paper remain the most popular. Artists are continually experimenting with new surfaces, creating new techniques and producing inspiring results.
Acrylics lend themselves to a variety of different styles. They can be mixed with water and used like water colors. If a thicker texture is desired, they are even applied straight from the tube. Some artists produce abstract works with lots of depth and texture whereas others create more traditional paintings. Subjects are very diverse and traditional landscapes, impressionistic landscapes, wildlife studies and portraits are just some of these.
These paints dry much quicker than oils. Layering is easy as the first layer dries quickly. As it is water resistant, it does not soften when another layer is added. This means that paintings can be finished at a quicker rate. Retarders can be added to slow down drying time if necessary when using techniques like blending.
Many different techniques and methods are possible with acrylics as they are extremely versatile. Artists use different brushes and other tools to create the effect they are looking for. A sponge is often used to create an irregular pattern. Using a stiff, brittle brush and dabbing on the paint adds depth and texture. A small, pointed brush is suitable for adding detail and creating more definition.
There are numerous brands of acrylics being sold today. Every artist has a brand they prefer, largely dependent on style and method used. Some of these paints offer more saturated, intense colors. The drying time too varies from brand to brand. Consistency is also different with some offering more fluidity and others being like soft butter. All of these paints are long lasting and are not subject to fading, yellowing or becoming brittle as they age.
The works produced by artists using acrylics are sold at many galleries and online stores. This has made them far more accessible to the general public than ever before and enabled many more artists to actually make a living from what they are doing. Although certain galleries are still prejudiced against the use acrylics, still believing them to be inferior, this attitude is fast changing.
