Acrylic artists have had an impact on the art world in a relatively short period of time. Oils and water colors have been around for centuries but acrylics were only developed in the 1940s. These paints which were initially developed for painting houses, not works of art, had certain qualities which attracted attention from artists looking for new forms of expression.
This medium was embraced by those who began to discover its interesting qualities. The fact that it dried so quickly meant that it allowed for one painting to be done at a time and painting over could also be done almost immediately. There were no limitations to the layers that could be applied, making some techniques easier.
One of these qualities that was much appreciated was the versatility of this medium. It could be mixed with water and applied in thin washes to look like a water color. If it was applied straight from the tube, the color was bold and good textures could be obtained. It could also be used successfully in mixed media.
Those who embraced this medium were taken with the many possibilities it presented. It gave them the opportunity to experiment with new methods. Even if they diluted these paints with water to create their paintings, they were also completely water proof once dry. Once the paint was dry, it could be over painted without disturbing the colors underneath.
The fact that it dried so quickly proved to be the best and worst quality of these paints. Quick drying meant that the long waiting time required with oils was eliminated. This was a major advantage but it also meant that certain techniques such as blending were more difficult. Today, manufacturers have produced extenders and retarders to deal with the disadvantages of quick drying.
One of the best aspects of acrylics was that just about any surface could be used. This encouraged experimentation on a range of materials including paper, wood, stone and canvas. Canvas was still most commonly used but results on most materials showed good coverage and the luster was even.
Through the years there has been debate over the superiority of different mediums and acrylics are often regarded as inferior. This perception is changing, especially with the high quality paints being produced today. However, there are still galleries that will not sell acrylics. This medium does have its drawbacks but its many good qualities presented new opportunities and revolutionized the approach to art.
What is more important than which medium is used is how well it is used. The new breed of artist will use any medium which best suits their style and process. They will often combine media, using both oils and acrylics to achieve the effects they want.
Acrylic artists today are flourishing from the advantages of being able to use these fast drying, versatile, color fast paints which give such opportunity for creative methods. This has enabled art to be available to a much wider audience. People can actually make a living out of painting and an appreciative client base world wide is able to appreciate their art.
This medium was embraced by those who began to discover its interesting qualities. The fact that it dried so quickly meant that it allowed for one painting to be done at a time and painting over could also be done almost immediately. There were no limitations to the layers that could be applied, making some techniques easier.
One of these qualities that was much appreciated was the versatility of this medium. It could be mixed with water and applied in thin washes to look like a water color. If it was applied straight from the tube, the color was bold and good textures could be obtained. It could also be used successfully in mixed media.
Those who embraced this medium were taken with the many possibilities it presented. It gave them the opportunity to experiment with new methods. Even if they diluted these paints with water to create their paintings, they were also completely water proof once dry. Once the paint was dry, it could be over painted without disturbing the colors underneath.
The fact that it dried so quickly proved to be the best and worst quality of these paints. Quick drying meant that the long waiting time required with oils was eliminated. This was a major advantage but it also meant that certain techniques such as blending were more difficult. Today, manufacturers have produced extenders and retarders to deal with the disadvantages of quick drying.
One of the best aspects of acrylics was that just about any surface could be used. This encouraged experimentation on a range of materials including paper, wood, stone and canvas. Canvas was still most commonly used but results on most materials showed good coverage and the luster was even.
Through the years there has been debate over the superiority of different mediums and acrylics are often regarded as inferior. This perception is changing, especially with the high quality paints being produced today. However, there are still galleries that will not sell acrylics. This medium does have its drawbacks but its many good qualities presented new opportunities and revolutionized the approach to art.
What is more important than which medium is used is how well it is used. The new breed of artist will use any medium which best suits their style and process. They will often combine media, using both oils and acrylics to achieve the effects they want.
Acrylic artists today are flourishing from the advantages of being able to use these fast drying, versatile, color fast paints which give such opportunity for creative methods. This has enabled art to be available to a much wider audience. People can actually make a living out of painting and an appreciative client base world wide is able to appreciate their art.
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