Artworks By An Acrylic Paint Artist


By Karina Frost


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.

It is strange to think that these paints were originally designed as house paints. However, the cross-over to the art world was inevitable due to their many interesting qualities. Manufacturers made various improvements due to the increasing demand from artists. These improvements have continued to be made over the years since they were first created. Nowadays, the quality of these paints is high and they offer the opportunity of creating paintings with great tonality and rich colors.

Artists use these paints on many different surfaces today. They are most commonly applied to stretched paper or canvas but other surfaces like glass, stone and wood are also being used. Just about any non shiny surface is suitable and artists love to experiment, offering up some interesting 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.

The fact that they dry so quickly offers both advantages and disadvantages. The advantage is that layering is possible at a much quicker rate as there is no long drying period between layers such as when using oils. Once a layer is dry it is water resistant too so it is not affected at all by adding another layer. However, the fact that it dries so quickly can be problem when attempting to blend. However, retarders can be added when blending to increase drying time.

Other techniques like sponging, detailing and dabbing are also used by artists. A sponge can be used to create certain effects and is often used for foliage. Dabbing with a stiff, brittle brush is another way to add texture and depth. Detailing with a smaller, pointed brush adds detail and clear lines, giving 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.

Acrylic artists are producing some amazing work today and this is sold at many galleries, both local and online. This has meant that paintings have become far more accessible to the public at large than ever before. The prices vary considerably as does quality. However, people now have the opportunity of finding a painting that suits their taste and budget.




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