Millions of successful acrylic artists all over the world today attest to the increasing popularity of this medium. Acrylics do have a relatively short history in that they were only developed in the late 1940s. They were first used as house paints but attracted the attention of the art world due to certain obvious benefits, such as their quick drying time.
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.
An artist like Andy Warhol experimented with acrylics and produced paintings which are still famous today such as his soup cans and the painting of Marilyn Monroe. As more artists began to experiment with these paints, the manufacturers began to improve their quality.
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.
Another factor which was appreciated was that acrylics could be used for painting on just about any grease free, non shiny surface although stretched canvas was most commonly used. Cleaning up was also not as difficult as with oil paints and they did not have the smell of oils which had a negative effect on some people.
There is a lingering prejudice against acrylics today by some galleries and those who choose this medium still find themselves defending their choice against detractors. The fact is that many have benefited from being able to use acrylics for their work. This medium has virtues and drawbacks just like any other and in the right hands, the virtues predominate.
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.
An artist like Andy Warhol experimented with acrylics and produced paintings which are still famous today such as his soup cans and the painting of Marilyn Monroe. As more artists began to experiment with these paints, the manufacturers began to improve their quality.
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.
Another factor which was appreciated was that acrylics could be used for painting on just about any grease free, non shiny surface although stretched canvas was most commonly used. Cleaning up was also not as difficult as with oil paints and they did not have the smell of oils which had a negative effect on some people.
There is a lingering prejudice against acrylics today by some galleries and those who choose this medium still find themselves defending their choice against detractors. The fact is that many have benefited from being able to use acrylics for their work. This medium has virtues and drawbacks just like any other and in the right hands, the virtues predominate.
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.
About the Author:
If you're interested in acrylic artists, check out www.jpmuirarts.com and see some great work. Visit her website at http://www.jpmuirarts.com today.
No comments:
Post a Comment