ACRYLIC PAINTS

The History Acrylic paint is a newcomer to the art world. While oil paints have been around for centuries, acrylics have only been around for decades.

Advantages Flexibility Water based Non toxic Stable colors

Artists Frank StellaFrank Stella Abra Variation I, Fluorescent alkyd on canvas

David Hockney A Bigger Splash, Acrylic on canvas

Big Self-Portrait, Acrylic on Canvas, Chuck Close,

The Material Opaque- Acrylics can be used opaquely by building up layers or applied thickly. Transparent- Acrylics can be used transparently when mixed with water. Side note- Acrylic paint dries darker than it appears wet!

It is plastic so when it dries it takes on a tough and malleable quality. It can be extruded, knotted, or even sculpted. Side note- Acrylic paint also works like a glue. Try it as a glue on your next collage. Sadie, Acrylic on canvas, 2009

This also means that if you do not properly wash out your brushes the acrylic paint will dry and brush bristles will harden, ruining them! Side note- Brush prices range from a couple dollars to over $100 each!

Brushes Small round sable Larger round Flat soft hair Filbert bristle Round bristle Flat bristle Sable wash General Purpose An Introduction to Art Techniques

Additives/Mediums You can purchase a variety of additives to mix into acrylic paint. These additives do things such as Add texture Slow drying Function with fabric Iridescent Tinting Etc Image by Carol Nelson

Traditional Supports PlywoodHardboard Chipboard Canvas BoardStretched CanvasPaper

Non-Traditional

Beyond the Classroom How will you take this basic information about acrylic paints beyond the classroom? (let’s review)