Painting is one of the oldest and most popular forms of artistic expression. It has been used in various ways since the dawn of mankind, from rudimentary cave paintings to today’s multifaceted assemblages and mixed media. Painting is a two-dimensional medium that can create the illusion of space, movement, light and depth. It is often considered the most difficult form of art to master, but a solid foundation in technique can elevate your work and open doors for exploration.
Unlike drawing, which is done on a single layer of paper or canvas, painting is an additive process in which layers of paint are applied to one another. While this can lead to some messy results, it also provides a great deal of flexibility and room for experimentation. With this in mind, there are many different techniques to consider when creating a painting, each with its own unique benefits.
The first step in any painting is to prepare the surface. This is usually done by applying a thin cover or wash of white or other color. This helps the colors underneath to appear more even and reduces the likelihood of cracking as the paint dries.
Once the surface is ready, the next step is to start painting. For larger surfaces, a roller may be used to ensure an even coating. For smaller areas, a brush is the preferred tool. When using a brush, it is important to follow a consistent pattern to ensure an even coat. For example, a “W” or “M” pattern is often used for walls and ceilings, while a “feathering” or “tipping” technique can be used for edges and corners.
While the majority of paintings are created with liquid pigments, there are some exceptions. Encaustic painting, for example, is a type of hot wax painting that uses heated beeswax to which colored pigments are added. This mixture is then applied to the canvas or other surface, and can be shaped with metal tools before it dries.
Another interesting technique is to apply a thin coat of clear glaze over the entire surface, allowing it to dry transparently. This allows the layers below to show through, giving the painting a sense of lightness and luminosity. This is a great way to add depth to a painting without losing the contrasts that make it so compelling.
In the late 1800s, a group of French artists began to experiment with how light affected the colors of natural objects. This led to a style of painting known as Impressionism. These works use a variety of brushstrokes to depict a subject, with each stroke varying in length and intensity. This technique can be very challenging, but it is well worth the effort as it can produce stunning effects.
Another popular painting technique is to add texture by dragging a soft, feathery pastel stick over the surface of a painting. This can create a broken, textured effect that is particularly effective for landscapes and other nature scenes.