Painting is one of the oldest and most popular forms of artistic expression. It has been used by all cultures since the beginning of human civilization to communicate ideas, share a story, or simply present a pleasing image. There are a variety of types and styles of paintings, from traditional to abstract. Some are made on canvas, while others are sculptural or are created on a more rigid support such as wood panels. In addition to the medium of paint, other elements such as color, texture and shape are often added to a painting.
To be a successful painter, you must know your purpose for making a painting. Are you trying to capture a specific scene or subject? Are you interested in creating a sense of movement or atmosphere? The answers to these questions will help guide your choices of subjects, techniques and supplies. It is also important to choose a medium that you will work with exclusively for a period of time. This allows you to become a master of that medium and focus your energy on the fundamentals of painting, such as composition, value, and color.
Paint can be applied as a solid, a gas or a liquid. Some paints are thin enough to spread easily with a brush, while others require a thicker application and a rag. The type of surface on which the paint is applied can also affect its appearance, for example, smooth paper will create a crisper line than rougher canvas. The pigments used in a painting can vary from natural earth minerals to modern synthetic varieties.
When starting out, it is a good idea to buy the best quality paints that you can afford. You will not be able to mix nice colors with cheap or student-grade paints. The higher priced brands will cost more, but they will contain superior pigments and produce a better finished painting.
Once you have your supplies, it is time to begin the actual painting. Begin by laying down the basic shapes and colors with broad strokes. This technique will establish the composition and color relationships of your painting early in the process, allowing you to make changes as needed.
If you are a beginner, it is a good idea to start with a small canvas. This will give you practice with the materials without investing a lot of money. As you get more experience, you can upgrade to larger canvases.
When working on a painting, it is easy to get burnt out. Try to work for short periods of time and take frequent breaks. If possible, try to paint in a studio with a comfortable chair. You may even want to put on some music that inspires you and relaxes you while you are painting.
When painting, remember to stay true to your subject. It is easy to exaggerate the brightness of a flower or the glow on a glass surface, but this will just make your painting look amateurish. Be sure to check your colors carefully and trust your eyes.