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Introduction to Acrylics

Of all the media from which artists could choose to begin their adventure into painting, acrylics are likely the best one.  Besides being a safe way to paint, acrylics have two great qualities: they are versatile and they are forgiving.

Acrylics are versatile in the way they can be applied.  When thinned with water and used as a wash, they behave similarly to watercolours.  When combined with retarders or gels, the drying time can be slowed down or the viscosity increased, so that acrylics will handle like oils.  The best results are achieved by using a number of different techniques for applying acrylics within the same painting.

The second big feature of acrylics is that it provides the artist with the ability to correct any mistakes that might happen.  What could be more comforting than to know that potential errors will not mean that you have to start a painting all over again?

In the style of painting I use, I prefer to work with medium viscosity (jar) paints, as opposed to high viscosity (tube) paints.

Beginners and experienced painters alike, give acrylics a try. You may find that there will be no turning back.