Acrylic paint is a well-loved, popular medium due to its vibrancy and versatility, as well as ease-of-use and different capabilities. Although relatively new to the scene, acrylic has cemented itself as a reliable medium with a variety of uses. Acrylic has several features that distinguish it from other mediums, and make it beginner-friendly as well as suitable for professional applications.
In this series, we provide an overview of acrylic paint. This article explores the various characteristics that make acrylic paint a unique, versatile option for artists of all levels.
Acrylic Paint Characteristics
Acrylic paint has several key characteristics that set it apart from other types of paint and make it very versatile for different applications:
Fast-Drying - acrylic dries fairly quickly and is water-fast when dry. However, the paint takes longer to fully cure than it does to become dry to the touch. Thin paint applications will be touch-dry within a few minutes, and thicker quantities will need several hours. Thin layers can be fully cured within a few days, while thicker applications may take up to several months.
Permanent - because acrylic is water-based, it is water-soluble when wet, making it relatively easy to clean, yet water-fast when dry. Artist-quality lines are considered to be permanent and lightfast.
Versatile - acrylic paint is available in various consistencies and formats, for use in different techniques, and is able to stick to many surfaces.
User-Friendly - with acrylic, there is no need for harsh solvents, and the paint itself is low odour and without fumes (although it should still be used in a well-ventilated area). Acrylics are easily portable and can be used for applications such as plein air with relatively little mess or materials, making them straightforward to use and easy to clean.
Environmentally Friendly - despite the presence of acrylic polymer emulsion, acrylic paints are known as the environmentally-friendly painting medium compared to oil paints, which often contain heavy metals to aid with drying.
True Pigment Sheen - some colours may appear matte and others glossy due to the characteristics of each individual pigment. Generally, inorganic pigments will have a more matte appearance than organic pigments due to the particle size and opacity.
Transparency - a common misconception is that a higher quality product is always more opaque, however opacity is only related to the quality of the pigment grind and the pigments used. For glazing, layering, and colour mixing, an extra-finely ground and naturally transparent pigment can be highly sought after. Transparency should not be mistaken for pigment strength, as more pigment does not equal more opacity. A mark of quality acrylic paint, transparency allows for easy mixing. Although acrylic is generally opaque, relative transparency increases mixing capabilities and demonstrates rich colour vibrancy.
Because of these characteristics, acrylic has many advantages in terms of versatility, durability, and colour intensity. Acrylic can also mimic the effects of other mediums like oil or watercolour, especially with the use of mediums to alter or develop its characteristics.
Explore our range of acrylic paints and mediums through our website, or at Art Noise online or in-person in Kingston. If you use our acrylic paints or mediums, make sure to tag us on social media posts - we would love to see your work!
For more information, check out our other blog posts on acrylic paint, our FAQ page, or contact us.
