Painting is the visual art that uses pigments in a liquid medium to create an image on top of a ground. It can be done in many styles and with a variety of materials, from oils to water colors to casein and tempera. A painter’s choice of media and techniques will affect the final product.
Paintings can be realistic, abstract or a combination of both. They can be created on almost any surface such as canvas, wood, glass or ceramics. The purpose of a painting is to express an idea or mood. There are some basic elements that all paintings should contain, such as light and dark contrasts, a focal point or subject, and the use of color.
The first thing a beginner should do is think about why they want to paint. This will help them focus on the important aspects of painting and not get bogged down with small details or techniques that may or may not work for their style. For example, if they are interested in being a master realist painter like John Singer Sargent or Joaquin Sorolla they should follow a rigorous training regime that will push them to perfect their technique.
Once they have figured out their purpose for painting they should decide on a medium. There are many different types of paints including oil, acrylic, and watercolors. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Oil paints have pigment particles that are suspended in oil, which makes them slow to dry. Watercolors, on the other hand, are water based and are fast drying. Acrylic paints are a bit in-between. They are non-toxic and easy to clean, but they can be quite brittle as they age.
Another aspect to consider is the texture of the canvas. A smooth canvas will work well for finely detailed paintings, whereas a rough canvas can give you a more expressive and rustic look. If a rough canvas is too stiff to handle you can always use the little ‘canvas keys’ that come in a back stapled on the back of the canvas to make it more flexible and soft.
Brushwork is also an important element of a painting, as it is what makes it unique and distinguishable from other forms of artwork. Using a palette knife, finger or even your hands can all add to the overall expression of a piece of work. It is also a great way to practice your painting skills and develop a more tactile relationship with the paint.
Lastly, it is very important to always check your color. It is very easy to exaggerate a color and end up with something that looks unnatural. This can be caused by not trusting your color checking or simply letting yourself go.
Choosing a varnish for your painting is also an important decision. There are spray and brushed varnishes available. Generally speaking, the best option is to use a spray as it is quick and easy to apply, but you should read the instructions on the can carefully because there are often room temperature considerations, and a time needed between coats. Alternatively you can always brush on the varnish, which takes longer but allows for more control and is ideal if your painting is highly textured.