Painting is a timeless medium for expression and storytelling. It has been around for thousands of years, with cave paintings discovered in various countries across the world. The art form continues to evolve, from using pigments found in earth minerals and plants to modern day oil and acrylic paints that can be mixed to a wide range of viscosities.
Whether you are an experienced painter or just getting started, there are always new techniques to try that will help you create something more unique and interesting. In this article, we will provide you with 10 essential painting techniques to expand your skillset and make your next picture stand out from the rest.
A lot of people will start their paintings with a simple outline of the subject they are trying to capture. This helps them locate large dark shapes and allows them to paint around those areas first. This can save a lot of time, especially when working on something large like a landscape. However, there are some painters who prefer to go straight in with the paint. This gives them the freedom to express themselves more and can be quite liberating.
One of the best ways to make your painting stand out is by adding a highlight or shimmer to it. This can be done by adding a small amount of white paint to a specific area in your picture. For example, in the mermaid painting above, white was added to her hair and tail to bring out the light reflection.
Adding some texture to your painting can give it a more realistic feel. This can be done by using a thick brush and flicking it on the surface of your painting. This is ideal for expressing the emotion of your scene or adding some movement to it.
Splattering is another great way to add some texture to your paint. This can be done by dipping your paintbrush into the paint and then splattering it on the canvas or paper. This can create a very dynamic and chaotic effect which can be very eye-catching.
If you are working with a particular color that is very vibrant, try highlighting it with a different color. For example, you can use yellow with blue to create a very striking effect.
It is always a good idea to sketch out your painting before you begin. This will give you a guide to follow and it can help prevent any mistakes that may occur once the paint is on the surface. It is also a great way to help you get the composition of your painting right.
It is possible to become a faster painter, but it takes practice and commitment to your craft. Whether you are a professional artist or just paint for fun, learning how to speed up your process can be very beneficial. It will allow you to produce more work and can be beneficial when it comes to selling your paintings.