A switch to Acrylic Paints

Artwork by MarvinKent

Acrylic painting is one of the youngest mediums used in the world of visual arts. Acrylic paints were introduced in the market around 1950’s. Since then, it has been the favorite of many visual artists, and art enthusiast.

Acrylic paint is a water-based medium, its solid vibrant color, its texture and consistency is closely similar to Oil paints. But the advantage of the Acrylic paints is its viscosity property. These Acrylic paints can be diluted with water, while in Oil paints it is not possible. Also, since it is less dense, these Acrylic paints have the ability to dry faster than any other mediums. Since it has a resemblance of Oil and Watercolor, thus, the Acrylic painting medium provides new and professional artist a very wide range, flexible ways of painting, and adaptation with other art supplies. Experienced artists added some substances such as sands, plaster of Paris, glue, and paste, on the Acrylic paints to create a wide variety of texture.

Not more than a decade ago, many artists also discovered that Acrylic paints can offer a better emulsion when added with additives, and impasto or paste effect in any artwork or surfaces. Since it can be diluted with water, its usage was made possible for airbrushes, face painting and even textile printing. However, most artists used the old watercolor style to change the thickness depending on the desired output and quality. 

My experience in using Acrylic paints is like switching from an old shampoo to a newly introduced and developed brand of shampoo. Acrylic is more fun and creates more movements in my artwork. It is applicable in any texture and any surfaces. When you had mistake along the way, I really find it so easy to cover it just brushing or coating a new layer on it.

Well, aside from the quality it offers and unique characteristics, Acrylic paints are much more affordable than Oil paints.

by Marvin Kent