Paint With Watercolour Art Materials

Aspiring arts will require a number of art materials before attempting watercolour paintings.

Watercolour paints are thinner in substance compared to others such as acrylics and pastels so they require a greater level of precision which means they are often only used by experienced professional painters.

Choosing the right watercolour paint is crucial to the success of creating an art work and there are a number of important factors to consider before purchasing a proven product.

The brand of paints is very important and in my opinion the best manufacturer is Winsor & Newton because they have over a century of experience producing watercolour products and have supplied to famous painters such as John Constable.

If you are buying on a budget, then you might want to purchase smaller quantities of these high quality paints because there is no substitute for superiority as inferior products will damage the beauty of a painting.

After choosing the most appropriate size of the bottle and the brand of paint, you will need to buy the right variety of brush because this is arguably the second most important material that will impact on the quality of a painting.

A small or medium round, fine brush which is specific to watercolours should be used by any artist who is serious about creating the best painting possible with premium art products.

It is advisable to select brushes with shorter handles that have bristles which are made of natural fibres because these allow an advanced level of precision painting and are most suitable to watercolour paints.

Discovering the right type of surface to paint on is also important as you will need special watercolour paper in order to get the best out of your selected paints and brushes.

After finding the most suitable surface, you will need to decide between using a table or easel and typically tables are more popular among watercolour artists because the paint does not drip down the paper as much compared to easels.

Mixing watercolour paints can be difficult so it is recommended to buy a small porcelain dish as this will allow you to mix paints while avoiding the annoyance of dealing with floating water debris.

Once you have purchased all these products, the last material an artist will need before painting is a watercolour paints palette, which usually are usually manufactured from porcelain, paper or plastic.

All painters should only buy art materials from reputable retailers with a track record of providing premium products.

Buy the very best art materials and art supplies from Turnham Arts & Craft. Click on the links to discover what products we offer!

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Beautiful Paintings Created By Spray Paint Art

Spray Paint Art is the technique of creating amazing pictures by manipulating paint on posterboard. Paintings can also be performed on other mediums such as car bonnets and motorbike fuel tanks to quote two examples, but in general you'll see artists creating masterpieces on paper.

Aerosolgrafia is the term given to this art form in Mexico where Spray Painting was first performed, back in the nineteen seventies. With it's roots in street art, performers would make their living by producing works of art for the tourist trade and sell these direct from the pavement.

Until recently your best chance at catching a spray paint art session from an artist, would've been to visit a city or tourist hot spot where these artists perform. However, the internet has made the world smaller and you can now watch artists from all over the world without leaving the comfort of your living room. An added benefit is that you can learn their skills online, as they show you what to do with just a few spray paint cans and some newspaper.

The way the art works is very simple, but expert practitioners can often leave you bewildered by their forward planning, which makes the reveals even more stunning.

You choose the basic colours for the scene and spray them down onto the posterboard, generally starting with the lighter colours. Then you remove layers of paint to your satisfaction using newspaper or magazine sheets. You can do this in a variety of ways, experimenting is all part of the fun.

Household items such as bowls and plates are used as templates to mask off a textured area you've created. By spraying around the template you can create planets, pyramids and other objects. When you become more advanced you can create your own stencils and pretty much recreate any object or landscape you wish.

The most popular or common subject matter is undoubtedly the space theme and this might focus on planets, pyramids, both or neither, but certainly these two objects are the easiest to practice when you're learning the art.

Spectacular planets and mystical pyramids are what draw the crowds in and this in turn is what helps the artist make more sales. People are not used to seeing these unreal picture types and this other worldly feeling attracts tourists to the display. Artists who expand their horizons into other topics often stand out more, especially online where you'll find thousands of space art pictures, but relatively few portraits of other subjects.

Nature is a more common alternative to space for spray paint themes and this topic allows artists to show their skills recreating rocks, plants, trees and animals. These objects are more difficult to paint, so are usually reserved for the more experienced artist who has tight hand skills required to make subtle movements within the painting.

If this article has whetted your appetite for a new creative hobby or pastime, you'll need to know what supplies you require to get started. It's not an expensive hobby as spray cans only cost a few pounds and last a reasonable length of time - depending on how often you're painting. The rest of the objects can generally be found around your home.

A lovely benefit to spray painting is the money you can make from it if you get good. When your painting reach a good standard, get out onto the pavements and do live shows or create a website and link to it via YouTube!

To view my progress and get started yourself with spray painting visit my Spray Paint Art website for help and advice. Here I go into detail on how you can learn the art with the aid of a spray paint art tutorial.

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Digital Painting Vs Traditional Painting

Digital painting, for those who are still unaware, is an art form in which traditional painting techniques are demonstrated using digital tools in computer software, or a digitizing tablet and stylus. The "artist" uses painting techniques to create the digital painting on the computer. Included in the programs are brushes that are digitally styled to portray the traditional style of painting as with oils, acrylics, and water paint.

Creating with the effect of charcoal, pen, and pastels is also an available tool. In most programs, the user can even create their own brush style using both shape and texture, which is important in bringing traditional and digital painting together as an authentic looking product.

Although digital painting has always been a fascinating subject to me, and I think it's amazing how a technique is executed in minutes when it normally takes days to get the same effect by hand, I can't help but think it takes away the integrity of a real painting done by a truly skilled artist. With "digital" painting there is no real artistic talent used in applying the techniques that are mimicked by digital painting programs. They are applied by using digital tools in the computer software. It's hard for a traditional artist to think of a person using this kind of software as authentic. Not to say they don't have an "eye" for color or have a lack of vision, but what about the skill of actually using physical mediums and tools? Not to mention the feeling of accomplishment that comes with finishing a painting that has been lovingly worked on for a while, mixing paint to get the perfect color, and, by trial and error, getting that effect you've been striving to achieve. The whole style of the artist is different.

Many traditional artists are very physical with their paintings and will use hands, feet, clothes and whatever else to get a certain effect or texture. They like to mix the paints with an actual palette knife, use mediums to adjust the paints, apply the paints to a real surface, and work a painting until it is finished with great satisfaction. They especially appreciate learning from mistakes made and skillfully correcting them... not by selecting "undo" in a software program, but by hand.

I can see where it would be tempting to use a digital program just for the fact you have a palette of a million colors to choose from, and the ability to take back mistakes in an instant. However, it's still apparent to me that these digital programs should be used primarily for work and school projects or on a commercial level for graphic designers. Fine artists who want a hands-on relationship with painting mediums and their smells, canvases and their textures, and the overall messiness of using their fingers as tools should stay authentic and true to their craft.

Lou Bass has been an experienced portrait artist since 1972, and has been involved with internet marketing since 2010. He currently offers advice and techniques in oil painting at [http://www.portraitsandpaintingsinoil.com]

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Oil Painting: Developing An Art Style of Your Own

One of the greatest compliments I ever received was from a renown artist who, after having viewed several of my paintings, pointed out that I had my own art style. I was surprised to hear that, because without realizing it, I had developed my own unique style of painting. Up until that point I hadn't given much thought to even having my own style much less trying to develop one. What's more, I barely even knew what style was. I knew all the Old Masters had it, or so I was told, and that it was something good to have. So I set out to find out more about artistic style, what it is and where it comes from.

What exactly is art style? Artistic style is a specific characteristic or group of characteristics that is consistently present in the artworks of an artist. It's that extra little thing, referred to as "identifiable style", that an artist does to distinguish his/her work from the work of other artists.

Many artists, whether they realize it or not, have an identifiable style of painting. Their personal style is neither good or bad. It is simply the result of the particular choices and decisions a painter makes in the course of composing his/her oil paintings. These decisions are what defines the identity of an artist's style and is made up of a combination of the mediums, technique and subject matter chosen. It's not that an artist chooses to paint landscapes, still life or portraits - those are only genres. Rather, it is how the artist handles each of the various elements (line, form, texture, value, color and shape) that make up the composition.

Should you develop an art style of your own? If you hope to be taken seriously as an artist I would definitely say "YES," for the following reasons.

(1) Developing your own original style will help to define you and set you apart from other artists. It's your individuality and uniqueness as an artist.

(2) It's what allows others who view your work and know that it is a work painted by you without having to look at the signature on the canvas.

(3) It offers you a way to have personal satisfaction from your works by expressing your own ideas and inner vision.

(4) If you plan to display your paintings in art galleries, then a distinct art style is something a gallery owner or curator will want to see in your work.

(5) Finally, developing your own style is a necessary thing if you want your paintings to capture the eye of art collectors. Many collectors hold to a certain opinion of, "if it looks just like the real thing, then I'll just take a photograph and hang it on the wall." For many art connoisseurs, an artist's personal style is the essence of the art.

How do you develop your personal painting style? Before I can tell you how to do that, I first need to tell you how to absolutely NOT develop one. You won't develop your own style by copying the works of other artists. Let me repeat that. If you copy the works of another artist, you will never develop a unique art style of your own. The reason for this is when you copy someone's work, you are merely imitating the choices and decisions that have already been made by the artist who's work you are copying. Novice painters often do this. They copy the works of other artists they like and this is a disservice to the world of art. As long as they continue to do this, they will never develop their own form of unique artistic expression and move beyond being a mere hobbyist to a serious artist or even a professional one. Your style is developed by the decisions and choices YOU make about the different elements that go into your painting.

An artist's unique style does not develop over night. It evolves over time as a result of either conscious or unconscious effort on the part of the artist and it will most likely change a number of times as the painter grows as an artist. The best way to develop a style is to do a lot of painting. In doing so, you can expect your style to progress as you acquire more experience, knowledge and skills. As you move from painting to painting, you find that certain artistic characteristics or qualities will keep reoccurring. This is your unique style. One thing to keep in mind about style is that you do not have to stick with the same one all your life. You can change it at any time and you will be surprised to find that it can and often does evolve.

Teresa is an artist of original oil paintings and has written numerous articles on various subjects, including oil painting and art. Click here to view her animal and wildlife paintings.

Teresa Bernard has been a fine art artist of original oil paintings since her preteen years. Since then she has gone on to create a name for herself as an accomplished artist and has sold her paintings across the US and world wide. Her paintings can be viewed online at http://teresabernardart.com.

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The Paint Is Cracking on My Painting!

"What causes the cracking in oil paints that is often seen in antique paintings?" is one of the most common questions that I am asked.

This phenomena of small cracks within the oil paint is known as crazing and is usually caused by drying times and the environmental conditions that the art has been subjected to.

It's only been in the 20th Century with our current heat and air conditioning methods that have allowed us to live within a fairly consistent indoor temperature and humidity. Prior to this, fireplaces were the most common method of heating a home and an open window was the way to cool it. This fluctuation in the environment puts stress on a work of art. The oil paint and supports, whether it is canvas or wood, actually expands and contracts.

Another factor is that artists usually create oil paintings by layering the colors. This layering process means that the paint has different drying times. Also, it was not until 1841 that paints were available to artist in metal tubes. Prior to this, the artists had to grind the pigments and mix them in the oil which meant that the oil to pigment ratio was not necessarily consistent from one color to the next which also affected the drying times.

Now, think about these different layers as similar to the tectonic plates of the earth. These plates are always expanding and contracting depending on the stress that it encounters. This shifting over the centuries have caused mountains to be formed and earthquakes to wreck havoc. This is what happens to the layers of paint, but instead of a "paint quake" you see a maze of cracks within the painting. These cracks might appear over the entire painting or just within a localized area. It is just a natural process of antique paintings.

The value of the art is not impacted by crazing unless it is very severe, with large cracks and paint loss. Restoration can usually remedy a severe problem. Most of the time, crazing stabilizes when the art is in a modern home or business.

If the area of cracked paint has a center and expands out similar to a spider web, then the canvas has experienced trauma such as being hit or poked. The canvas many not have been punctured, but over a time period the stress of the changing environment will expose the hidden damage. A good restorer can help to stabilize and support this area.

Enjoy your antique painting and the history that it represents!

Melanie Smith is one of the owners of Seaside Art Gallery which has been established since 1961. She is an accredited member of the International Society of Appraisers with a specialty in fine art and animation art.

Seaside Art Gallery specializes in original works of art. You can visit them in Nags Head, NC or on their website at http://www.seasideart.com/.

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Making a Fine Art Painting - Which is Best Acrylic Paint Or Oil Paint?

Trying to decide which type of paint to use to paint your next art masterpiece? Should you go with the tried and true oil paints, or should you try the newer medium of acrylic paint? Each of these types of paints has their pros and cons which you should investigate so that you can choose the medium that suits your painting style. You are the artist, you make the call.

Oil paint, the traditional medium, is basically powder pigments mixed with clear linseed oil. This paint is slow drying and for that reason is perfectly suited for blending colors together smoothly with plenty of time to contemplate the painting's progress and still have time to edit and adjust the image before the paint dries. Another plus of oil paint is the luminous quality of the paint which is achieved from the linseed oil medium which allows light to pass through the paint and bounce thereby illuminating the paint on the surface. Additionally, oil paint has been proven to be the most permanent medium for fine art painting. Most paintings on canvas and wood were made with oil paint from early Renaissance times until the 1960's when acrylic paints were introduced.

Acrylic paint is only about fifty years old, and is the new kid on the block. This paint is made from powdered pigments and a liquid acrylic plastic medium. Unlike oil paint, acrylic dries fairly quickly and you will need to plan ahead and move quickly if you want to do much modeling or blending of colors with this type of artists paint. However, the quick drying quality of acrylic paint can be an advantage if you paint in layers or paint in such a way that does not require the blending or colors. You don't have to wait for several days for paint to dry before you paint something on top of a previous layer with acrylic. If you want to mix several mediums together, like acrylic drawing paper and found objects, then acrylics are the perfect type of paint for the job. There are also a wide variety of specialty paints and mediums that can be used with acrylics such as modeling paste for texture, gloss and matte mediums for thinning and mixing, iridescent and fluorescent paint, and many other special effect mediums and additives that could broaden the range of your creative artistic expression.

Some artists begin their paintings with acrylic paint and when that dries, they finish the artwork with oil paint. Hopefully, this will give you enough basic information to make an informed choice about what type of painting medium is most suited to your type of artistic expression.

The author, George McKim, is an award winning artist who has exhibited his artwork in museums and galleries. George has created a new and rapidly growing Artist Social Network and Online Gallery at http://www.myartfriends.com

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The True Value of Learning Watercolor Painting With the Best Possible Ways

Painting is one of the most admired arts created by amateur and professional artists today. It represents exceptional talent through allowing an artist to express his or her thoughts. To name few of the most utilized materials to paint include canvas, plastics and wood.

One of the easiest ways to paint is through watercolor painting. However, you have to learn the exact methods on how to paint using watercolors. It is very important to determine the exact combination of hues to produce a remarkable artwork or masterpiece. Remember that if you cannot master the exact color mixtures, you might end up completing a disappointing work. Therefore, be very careful when combining the colors and learn how to stroke the paintbrush perfectly and smoothly.

For people like you who are revealing interest to this kind of hobby, it is best to understand the right information to discover the exact forms of painting. Although some folks find it easy even if they have not tried it, creating a masterpiece with watercolors require precise concentration and continuous learning. You have to master how to blend the colors with water and stroke your brush to finish your artwork the right way.

Compared to other painting materials like acrylic or oil paints, it is easier to correct any mistake. You can simply cover the mistake with another color layer and repaint afterwards. On the other hand, watercolor painting has a different case and once you create a mistake, you cannot just repaint your work. Meaning, you to have to start all over again using new materials and repeat the design you want. Because of this, it is very important to work cautiously, avoiding any carelessness that can ruin your artwork and wasting your time and effort.

What is good about doing artworks using watercolor paints is that you can use any time of paintbrush. This allows you to choose the best brush that will provide you the exact convenience you want. Again, make sure to perfect your strokes, color combinations and follow your ideas with care. By the way, if we look at most of the popular artists today, they do not just focus on using paintbrushes. They use their hands or feet to create an impressive artwork that can definitely grab the attention of the people.

Nowadays, numerous art galleries worldwide feature the best artists for watercolor paintings. Most of these artists who created these artworks are popular and experienced already. Of course, you can find affordable items up to the most expensive paintings in the world.

Please visit The Gallery London and you can find some artworks of the upcoming contemporary artist all over the UK by visiting this LINK

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Artists Painting Women Without Clothes - Their Objects and Desires

Figurative painting reflects deep understanding of the artists, as it is depiction of the anatomy of human body. While painting a figure, an artist tries showing the emotions through such paintings. It is an endeavor to recreate the psyche of the person painted or portrayed. A painter does so using his or her artistic skill. The master artists do so in the gentlest manner possible, as figurative painting would also require recreations of some of the gestures of the model. By doing so, a painter forges his or her reputation as an artist.

However the figurative painting in general and painting of men and women without clothes in particular have remained a bone of contention since ancient time. Whether they are rulers, politicians, scholars or religious leaders, all have opposed depicting cloth-less human bodies from time to time. But the clan of artists desiring to recreate the beauty of human form on their canvases have never bowed down to any social, political or religious pressure. They have applied their artistic prowess adoring the beauty of the male and female figures on papers, on canvases and on the altars of temples and churches.

The paintings done by artists like Botticelli, Rembrandt, William Bouguereau, Paul Gauguin or John Godward are considered as major links to the history of art of painting. It is because the artists love doing figurative painting. Moreover many of them have worked when the whole society stood on a crossroad. When artists function in a time that would decide the future of coming generations, such artists would play a consolidating role in many aspects. They help changing the age-old traditions and outdated philosophies.

If we look at the paintings done by artists like Rembrandt or Rossetti, we feel that the figures painted seem desiring to create a connecting bridge between the viewers on one hand and the painting on another. It is deep wishes of all the artists to appeal heads and hearts of those who see their artworks. Figurative painters have better options to do it nicely, as they are to deal with recreating the real human beings on their canvases.

Sometimes the so-called social police ask the artists about the purpose of their selecting cloth-less women as subject for depiction of their art. Artists have ready answers for that. The main motive of these artists to paint women without clothes is to spread a message of love and peace, as the women figure represents both of the passions.  

For reading similar articles with befitting images, visit the following links. 

PAINTINGS OF CLOTH-LESS WOMEN

DRAWING BREASTS OF WOMEN

I write short stories and articles about painting, drawing and yoga.

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Important Face Painting Tips for Newbies

Face painting is such an enjoyable activity, not just for kids, or teens, but for adults as well. Aside from the fun experience it bestows, it can actually be a very prosperous business, but you must remember that on whatever level you want to involve yourself in, that all the safety and health measures must be understood and practiced.

Many believe that what feels challenging must be difficult to start. (At least in your mind). But if you dare to start, you will realise that face painting is not as difficult as you thought. We will give you some tips on how to kick off. The first thing that you must understand is to start with something basic and simple like a white cat with whiskers. Going for a design that is simple and uses few colours will give you confidence to then try more. Little by little you will add form and colours that will give depth and detail to what you have started on. And as you continuously enjoy painting, step-by-step, you can make your art expression more detailed and refined.

But before going father, let us talk about the materials that we are going to use.

1. Face Paint - Be very careful of the paint you are going to paint with, especially as our "clients" will mostly be kids! Make sure the face paint is for the skin and is non-toxic and safe and is accordance with the standard of American, European and other countries regulations. Also, keep in mind that acrylic paints are not safe to be applied on your skin. It is not advisable to use watercolour or markers or pencils on skin for face painting. So the key to success is to use the right products and also to know if the person you are going to face paint has any skin allergies.

2. Brushes & Sponges to be used - Brushes and sponges dictate how the paint will be applied on the face. So take note, paint brushes must be of the best quality. You might use a minimum of two (2) brushes and 1 sponge to begin with. A small and fine pointed brush will be needed for detailed paint works. Secondly, you will need a medium-sized smoother pointed paintbrush to be used for the bolder strokes. Lastly, a sponge will help you to cover larger areas of the skin. I will give details of brushes and sponges in another chapter.

3. Designing what you are going to paint - Before painting on the face try drawing a picture of what you want to paint. Best of all try the design by drawing it on a drawing of a face. Try and imagine where the lines will be applied and how you will transfer this on to a 3D form. Ask yourself what details will bring out the best of the idea? What makes a cat say, look like a cat?

4. Painting - Face paints are water-based and will easily come off with some water. You will need water in a jar and a water spray to load the paint onto your brush/sponge. Be sure to wet the brush/sponge evenly before loading a colour. This will mean an even coat of paint that will come onto the skin. The water spray is used to spray directly onto the paint to make it wet since face paints are generally dry pastes. Try and use your brushes and sponges to apply the paint with some gentleness so you can add more and not waste time taking it off. You also have to consider drying time for the paint before adding another colour on top. If you only have a small amount of paint brushes be sure to wash the brush well before loading another colour as not to mix the colours up.

5. After you have completed you face paint design be sure to clean well all your brushes and sponges so they keep their quality and form. There are products to also help bring a rough looking brush back to its straight former self. Face painting is a very rewarding and relaxing activity and it brings such happy smiles to the painted. Enjoy the learning process and remember practise makes perfect! Happy face painting people!

Antonella Ripani does face painting Melbourne. Check out her face painting Australia works at http://www.facepaintingmelbourne.com.au

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Choosing The Oil Painting That Fits Your Home

If you are thinking about decorating your home, acquiring an oil painting is a great way of accomplishing this. It doesn't matter what style your home is, be it modern, classical or Victorian there is an oil painting that will fit your style. With the explosion of galleries, online art websites and auction houses the chances of not finding the perfect piece of art for your home is nearly impossible today.

Understanding colors and layout of the room - When looking at the room make note of the wall space. Is there enough room to hang the painting, are the walls mostly windows? What are the colors of the walls, will they make the painting standout? Each room is different, the family room is a place where the family congregates and usually watches TV or other activities. So a relaxing or serene painting might not fit into this type of room. Take in the room in, look at the color, the furniture, the lighting and use this information to determine what type of painting would be right for the room.

Room style - The furniture in the room defines your style for that room. Is the room modern, Victorian or traditional. Choosing a traditional painting and placing it in the modern will not have the desired effect. The painting you choose should complement the room and the room should complement the painting. The painting you choose should enhance and complete the room's style.

Room color - There are so many paint colors on the market today that many people have changed their wall color to one of these fancy new wall colors. Choosing a painting that consists of many colors and hanging it on a colorful wall the painting will most likely get lost. Using neutral colors in a room will allow your painting to standout. Neutral colors are in the family of whites and tans. Using these colors will allow your painting to "pop" on the wall. Before changing the color on the wall take a photo of painting and use it to see what the painting would look like on the wall in the room. This will help you make a decision on the wall color and the painting you choose.

Painting size - Many people make the mistake of purchasing a painting that is either too small or too large for the room. Oil paintings are much different than prints, posters or any other type of medium, to appreciate an oil painting, artists normally paint them on a larger scale. These paintings need to be viewed from a distance to be appreciated. When acquiring an oil painting make sure the wall size is large enough to fit the oil painting. You need to have enough space around the painting for the artwork to look proportionally correct.

Oil paintings tell a story - Using the style of the room which includes color, furniture and knick knacks the entire room tells a story and the painting should be included in that story. When visiting a gallery or shopping online for a painting make sure you have a picture of your room so you can see if the painting fits into the style and story of the room.

Need more oil painting ideas visit gfagallery.com

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Useful Tips on Finding the Right Art Supplies

Any artist is aware that he needs more than just an inspiration or a good subject to create his art. With the right art supplies and tools he can bring to existence what he envisions artistically. With the plethora of art supplies and tools that are available in the market today, an artist can be spoilt for choice. However, it is important to be choosy about the art materials and supplies you use and opt for quality instead of quantity. Your creativity and artistic skills can be used to your best advantage when you use high quality art supplies, materials and tools. There are several brands, qualities and types of art supplies available, but the only way of finding out which ones will suit your needs and style is by trying out a few of the different qualities and brands available.

Art Spectrum's art colours and materials

Art Spectrum is a family-owned Australian company that was founded in 1966. This company has been dedicated to manufacturing quality art supplies and products like water colors, permanent color oil paints, gouache, inks, pastels, paint mediums and primers. They also have a whole range of artists' brushes, water color papers, canvases and pigments to choose from. The company only uses permanent, light-fast pigments to create fine artists' colours. Art Spectrum art colours and materials are available at most reputed art supply outlets and online stores.

Get 'The World's Finest Artists' Materials' from Winsor & Newton

As a company founded in 1832, Winsor & Newton today are a leading brand of quality fine art materials the world over. The company built its reputation based on its product quality, reliability and innovation. Their founders, William Winsor and Henry Newton were associated with renowned artists of their generation and even to this day the company endeavors to keep pace with the times by developing innovative products. They manufacture an array of fine art materials including oil paints, drying oils, varnishes, oil bars, acrylics, pastel paints, water colours, calligraphy inks, canvases, craft paper, brushes and more.

Useful information and tips on using acrylic paint

Acrylic paints made by mixing a pigment with water and a polymer emulsion which acts as a binding agent. Once the water evaporates from the mixture the paint hardens and becomes quite tough. Acrylic paints are a very flexible medium to use for art painting as they dry fast. You can increase the density of the paint if you need more texture in your art or you could thin it down with water to make it lighter. Also painting over an existing layer of paint will not spoil the preceding layer. Acrylic paints can be used for outdoor or external paintings since they are weather-resistant. However, one would have to waterproof the sides and back of the canvas board to eliminate the chance of it becoming damp incase it rains. Since acrylic paint dries very quickly, to preserve any paint that may be leftover, it would be advisable to put it into an airtight container or jar to seal it. Using cling film to cover the jar is another option if you don't have an airtight lid.

Max Aden is a contributed writer and industry analyst. He is continuously into writing from a long period. Now he is dedicated towards artsuppliesaustralia.com.au. Art Supplies Australia is one of best online store providing Art Spectrum, display easel, Acrylic paints.

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Various Kinds Of Painting Classes

Painting classes are samples of an inspirational art gathering. Both the old and young who happen to be inclined to the arts can certainly join these kinds of classes and become a lot more empowered. In fact, there are actually programs that focus mainly on doing inspirational artworks. Inspirational artworks could be far more than just a thing for your sight; they could also nourish your heart and soul and tantalize your mind. These types of paintings are made with a really special attention on making affection, happiness, serenity as well as inspiration.

Los Angeles painting classes are training sessions which may extend to a number of weeks. Active contribution and discussion with the participants can be a requirement in most classes. Most painting classes offer painters who are searching for brand new ways of seeing. Painting classes are generally referred to as a heading back-to-the-basics exercise, where these painters find their fascination with painting. You can find special painting classes for novices too where they're initiated in the field of art as well as colors. They're introduced to numerous techniques and styles and are also asked to make their own.

Whether or not you're a beginner or a skilled artist, the appeal of hues is simply too interesting for any artist. Teachers really encourage individuals to get rid of preconceptions regarding art making and discover own spontaneous expression. Allow me to share a few of the various types of painting classes usually offered with the possible ways to create wonder with them!

1. Starting Watercolor Painting Classes - Watercolors certainly are flexible medium and may be used to make simple or complicated paintings. Students in a preliminary watercolor class explore a lot of methods by means of class instruction and begin to create natural and abstract art of their own. Different kinds of watercolor paints, brushes and papers are explained. Students find out about the qualities of shades and practice using different color schemes. Paint blending, creation of light and darkness and wet-on-wet lessons presented.

2. Painting with Acrylics Courses - Acrylic paints could act like both oils and watercolors or be used to produce entirely different types of paintings. Rookies get lessons in materials, framework, and color concept and design and style fundamentals. Participants experiment with a lot of painting methods, working from life or images, to make landscapes, portraits as well as abstract paintings.

3. Introduction to Oil Painting Courses - People in the class find out the basic principles of utilizing oil paints, such as selecting brushes, preparing canvasses for painting and utilizing painter's mediums such as linseed oil, turpentine and dryers. Instruction in color mixing, structure and depth enable the student to start to create individual works of art. Participants work on their own canvasses, getting guidance from the teacher.

4. Chinese Brush Painting Classes - Students learn the art of Chinese brush painting through representation of flowers as well as birds. Bamboo brushes are widely-used to make ink washes in numerous gradations on rice paper. Strategies such as dry brush, layered brush and wet-on-wet painting are explained. Learners also find out about common design and style concepts and their link to Chinese and Western art.

Painting classes participation will make you understand that there's always a new challenge to learn whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner.

Clara Berta is a well-known artist that focuses on painting classes LA and everything else. Interior designers simply adore this modern art and she is also in demand for her popular art in Los Angeles and her wonderful mixed media paintings [http://www.modernmixedmedia.com]. For anyone who loves art, she definitely does not disappoint!

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Is Face Painting Safe?

As the holidays come nearer, the trend of face and body paints will definitely soar. Especially during Halloween, summer events and birthday parties, face paints often top the list among kids' favorite activities. As much fun as it is, you have to be careful with it as the wrong types of art supplies or slight carelessness can cause harmful skin reactions.

Before you get the face of your kids painted this holiday season, make sure that the water-based paints that are being used are safe for skin application. A lot of times, face painters use Sharpies or acrylic paints that are both highly unsuitable for skin. They contain harsh, damaging chemicals and often carcinogens, which are strictly prohibited from applying on the skin, even by the manufacturers themselves.

Also, use of cheap art supplies can be quite harmful when it comes to applying them on your skin, even if they are approved for skin application. They can often cause stains left on the face after washing up and may result in skin reaction or allergies. When it comes to face paints, it must be ensured that the best quality water-based paints are being used even if they are slightly more expensive.

Professional face painters always make sure that they invest in the right type of art supplies to make sure that their clients are safe. However, it is also the responsibility of parents to ask them about the kind of paints they are using before they allow their kids to get their face painted. Also, parents should make sure that the painters are using clean brushes and equipment, and have washed their hands thoroughly beforehand.

Those of us who have sensitive skin should be more careful with the water-based paints their painter is using on them. If you have any particular skin disease or allergy, it is important that you mention it to them. In case you are suffering from a contagious disease, you should strictly avoid the use of face paints.

So, be careful when it is you or your kids waiting in the line to get their face painted. Clearly ask the painter about the art supplies they are using and also ask them to let you go through the list of ingredients mentioned on them. If they seem reluctant to do so, it is better to walk away. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

For more info regarding art supplies and art supplies Australia visit website artworxgeelong.com.au

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Understanding Art With Spray Paint

Art with spray paint is an emerging urban art form that utilizes spray paint as its medium. It is an art form that often depicts science fiction scenes or fantasy environments; the art relies highly on random effects produced by the spray paints. It is similar to graffiti in the fact that it incorporates the use of aerosol paints, but it also differs in the fact that the art is painted on more traditional art surfaces like poster board rather than walls or trains. Also it is often painted for commercial purposes.

Usually a glossy white poster board is used as a painting surface, though; almost any flat surface can be used. The artist will usually perform in a well ventilated area but will still also suit up with a gas mask and a pair of gloves to minimize exposure to the harmful vapors and irritants (For a list of materials click here: spray paint art). Layers of paint are sprayed down unto the poster board surface, usually in order of lightest color to darkest. The artist will then take a magazine page and place it unto the fresh paint. After a second or two the artist will remove the magazine to create a random texture.

Afterwards they will usually lay down any predefined stencils; the stencils can be anything from intricate cutouts to ice cream lids that are used to make planets (To see examples, visit awholenotherstudio.com). After desired stencils have been laid the artist will then proceed to add the next layers which will be seen as the back ground. After a background has been laid the artist will go on to create the bulk of the picture consisting of anything from a mountain range and a forest to a futuristic city.

Art with spray paint is usually performed quickly in front of a large crowd in busy metropolis areas. A full sized painting can usually be made in 15 minutes and then sold to bystanders at a price usually around 20 dollars. On busy days an artist could earn anywhere from 200 to 1000 dollars, which massively outweighs the cost of paint supplies (40 -50 dollars). Overall,this art is relatively simple and is even often considered low art because of its lack of detail.

Jim is an advocate of art and particularly enjoys it with spray paint. His blog is about Spray Paint Art, at his blog you can find more information and some beginners techniques. For inspiration in painting Jim uses quotes like at this website: Fun Life Quotes.

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Seven Facts About Oil Paints

The majority of the world's masterpieces of art have been created with oil paints. Basically, oils are pigments that are bound into a "drying oil" which is an oil that hardens when exposed to air. The most common oil used is linseed oil. Here are a few facts about oil paints.

1. Oil paints were first used between the 5th & 9th century to decorate shields and other objects in western Afghanistan.

2. The use of oil paints did not appear in Europe until the 15th century. Prior to this, most artist used egg tempera.

3. Early in the 16th century, artist started painting on canvas instead of wood. Canvas had the advantage of holding the pigments better, resisted cracking which is a common problem of wood and needed less preparation.

4. White paint was created with lead. It dried quickly and covered well but had the disadvantage of being poisonous. Zinc became the substitute for lead in white paint around 1845. Checking the composition of the paint is one of the ways to date a painting.

5. Prior to the 19th Century, an artist's studio looked like a laboratory. The artists had to grind the pigments, boil the oil and use exact formulas to create their oil paints. Apprentices were hired to help with this chore.

6. Ultramarine blue was made with ground lapis lazuli, which was very expensive. After mixing it with the oil is was often stored in a pig's bladder. There was only one source for lapis during the 1600's and that was at a single location in an area that is in Afghanistan.

7. It was not until 1841 that oil paints were available in a metal tube, premixed and ready to use. This freed artists from this chore and made it more practical to paint outdoors. "Without paints in tubes," August Renoir stated, "there would have been no Cezanne, no Monet, no Sisley or Pissaro, nothing of what the journalists were later to call Impressionism."

These are just some of the things that have changed how artists used oil paints over the centuries.

Melanie Smith is one of the owners of Seaside Art Gallery which has been established since 1961. She is an accredited member of the International Society of Appraisers with a specialty in fine art and animation art.

She has hosted and organized numerous art shows and has been a judge for art shows in eastern North Carolina. She also developed and presented the webinar, "Prints, Original, Fakes or Reproductions" for the International Society of Appraisers.

Seaside Art Gallery specializes in original works of art. You can visit them in Nags Head, NC or on their website at http://www.seasideart.com/.

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Canvas Prints Or Oil Painting Reproductions

With walls hung with paintings and canvases is a big part of what makes your home attractive and a super place to live in. These hanging prints can when carefully selected become an excellent collection of their own, and therefore it can be with great pride that you show off your accommodation. As a connoisseur of art you might be wondering what the difference is between art prints and oil painting reproductions. One who is not acquainted with it may thing there is no difference between the two terms. They often are used interchangeably, but their meanings can differ greatly. If you want to buy these art reproductions it is significant that you know the difference.

Canvas Art Prints

This up-to-date technology for fine art or photograph reproductions uses a high-quality inkjet printer creating individual copies of any one image or images. That is why canvas art prints are identical copies of the genuine work of art. This printing process is like that of making a photocopy of a hand-written letter instead of rewriting it. Reproducing art by this photomechanical process is now very popular. Artists themselves often use canvas printing to create some copies of their own work which they sell on in limited additions. This special method is used to multiply copies of the best paintings and provide a lot of people with ample opportunity to contemplate their beauty.

Oil Painting Reproductions

Oil painting reproductions cannot be absolutely identical copies of original works of art, because they are recreated by hand. Someone other than the original artist analyses the original and paints a closely matching replica. Using oil paints and painting on canvas skilled artists try to replicate an exact copy of the originals. For those people who really know a great deal about their subject can spot the difference at a glance. Oil painting reproductions are similar to listening to your favourite songs not being sung by the original singer.

A piece of advice

In brief, art reproductions are actual paintings, but not only by the original artists. Prints are copies of the original works. Both oil art reproduction and canvas art print can be called reproductions but the first can't be a print. Both methods of recreation deserve your attention but it is up to you to decide what kind of reproduction you like the most and want to purchase. As the word "reproduction" may sound confusing it is better to ask questions before buying a painting to be sure that you're getting the right type of "copy". If you want real paintings without a high investment, reproductions are just the right thing. They are often preferred over prints when used in decor because they are usually very affordable. If you're looking to invest for future profits or to build a collection, but buying an original painting is unrealistic, canvas prints are the next best thing.

We offer only high quality canvas prints, home delivery and give warranty on our products.

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Palm Tree Symbolism in Custom Oil Painting Composition - Part 2

Welcome To Shard 2!

If you have read shard one of this chain of articles, on "composition in custom oil painting", then I welcome you, most heartily, to shard 2.

If you did not read shard one, then I'll give to you a clue about that, which you missed: it was the uncovering of marks, left on the viewer's mind, by positive, versus negative tokens; and how every token, whether good or bad, has its own right, and useful, time and spot.

The Jungian Mandala Is The Highest Of All Art Symbols

Judging by all the lore, that I have been yet able to get, I find that the "Jungian mandala" is the highest of all tokens. Because of that, every artwork ought to be a mandala - or ought to be an element, in a display of furniture, that makes a Jungian mandala.

Yet, it is now too early in the development of the Jungian Mandala Movement, for me to cause you to accept the idea, to make your every custom oil painting to be a Jungian mandala.

Because of the too-soon-ness, I hope to entice you, bit-by-bit, into that thought, by telling to you, first, of the betokening of the palm tree, and how you might put it to use, in your art works composition.

Palm Trees Are Trees, Too!

Since a palm tree happens to be a tree, it, therefore, shares the symbolic impact, of all other trees. Thus begin we with the symbolism of trees, per se.

Please, I beg of you, bear in mind, that to interpret a symbol is a subjective process, in most cases. The expert must be an intuitive person. I have gotten some interpretations from websites about dreams, and some from websites, of intuitive folks, who are not dealing with only dreams.

What Betoken Trees In An Artwork?

Here is some, of the lore, that I discovered, about the meaning of trees, in dreams, in one's consciousness, and in culture. Any of the following may apply to art paintings, as well.

Trees, seen from within a grove, an orchard, or from within a greenwood, betoken the character of the people who surround us. It has been said, that the height, of the trees, betokens the height, of our ambitions. To see the treetops, it has been said, betokens attainment of our ambitions.

Seen from a distance, in art works, such as art drawings, or fine art paintings, the same trees might betoken a social setting, which we view from afar, not having gone into it yet, as, for example, a traveler might see a town from miles away, before he ever goes into it. 

What Means A Solitary Tree?

A solitary, or focal, tree, in a custom oil painting, betokens the person-who-looks-at-the-art, the looker, himself.

When you consider a painting, or oil portrait as a possible gift, see whether a lone tree is in the composition. The condition, of the tree, tells the looker, about what feelings he is to have, about himself.

What Are The Best Trees?

A tree, that is healthy and tall, with leaves, flowers, or fruit, tells the looker to feel well about himself. It tells him to have life abundantly. An end, of his feeling so, about himself, would be his success.

If we truly care about someone, then our art painting gifts, and presents, to that someone, ought to have, in them, tokens, that are wholesome.

The tall, and healthy, tree tells the looker to see himself as inwardly strong. The oil painting artist, who knows his stuff, will display the tall and healthy tree in the gifts, that he paints.

The custom oil painting, that shows a lush, green tree tells the looker to have hope, to desire, to be safe, and to be stable.

What About Sick Or Defoliated Trees?

Otherwise, a sick, or defoliated, wintry tree tells the looker to feel that he is incomplete, inwardly weak, or undeveloped. Art gifts for our loved one ought not to show any tree except a healthy one.

When we consider custom oil painting, as one of our gift ideas, then it behooves us to think of the possibility of adding a tall, healthy tree to the composition.

You may remember, that I told to you, that I studied graphology. That is the art of handwriting analysis. It divides up the writing space into symbolic areas. Healthy movement is upward and to the right. This is confirmed by other research, such as hand motions and eye movements.

What About Trees That Block The Flowing?

I suspect that a tree, in a work of oil painting art, when put on the extreme right-hand side of the page, could form a symbolic barrier.

If the view of the tree is so close, that the stem, or the tree, appears to block the eye's movement, or the flowing of the composition, from moving to the upper right-hand edge of the picture, then the tree may betoken an obstacle, even death.

Because of all that, it is important that views of trees be from slightly afar, or else there be space around the tree, or, if the tree is close to the looker, it ought to be on the left.

For example, a photo, or other work of art, that uses a tree stem, or tree limbs, to frame the picture, ought to place the tree on the left, and to leave the right-hand space to be open. 

What Are The Exceptions?

Exceptions, whereof I can now think, are 2. One exception would be a picture, that is to be used in a mandala-arrangement of furniture.

Exception, number 2, would be if the picture contains a Jungian mandala composition in the middle, then it shouldn't matter if the right-hand edge is "blocked" by "framing", of a tree, or of any other object. Here I am only guessing, though it is, for true, an educated guess.

You are extremely fortunate, to have discovered, and read, an article, by the eminent specialist, Mick Snutz.

Go ahead and explore the topic of Custom Oil Painting http://erikthevermilion.com/oil-portrait.htm by clicking on the link.

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The Three Best Affordable Acrylic Paint Any Level Artist Can Use To Create Beautiful Paintings

As an artist I have used all sorts of acrylic paint ranging from the basic thin acrylic paint to the more expensive strong coat paint such as Golden. Most of the acrylic paint I use has been cheaper acrylic paint - it gets the job done just as well as the more costly professional acrylics.

There are some differences between the more affordable and expensive acrylic paints, like buoyancy, but overall some more affordable acrylic paints can still get the job done just as well as the more expensive professional acrylic paints. If you are a student or novice, buying affordable acrylics will be your best choice, especially when you are developing your painting skills.

Personally, most of the acrylics I use is very affordable. I paint with a palette knife and the main thing that I want any of my paints to have, whether cheap or expensive, is good pigment and to be thick enough to create some great textures. When I paint I like to layer my paint over my surface using the palette knife, sort of like layering icing on a cake, and most of the cheaper acrylics allow me to do that. I could buy acrylic paint that you see at places like Walmart - the ones that are in the small cylinder tubes. Those acrylics are just too thin to paint with - they are for crafts only.

For artists that want to paint on a canvas or hard surface I would suggest getting paint from your local art supply store or online like at Dick Blick or Mister Art; both of those retailers have all brands of paints at affordable prices. Before you start buying acrylics here are some brands of cheaper acrylic paint that are available.

Liquitex's Basic

One of my favorite acrylics is Liquitex Basic - it has been around for a long time. What I like about Liquitex Basic acrylic paint the most is that you get a lot of paint in their tubes and if you are close to running out in a particular color you can easily cut the bottom of the tube with scissors and get the remainder of the paint from the tube.

The paint is nice and thick and you can easily add different mediums to change the consistency of the paint. I use Liquitex Basic acrylic paint all the time and find it offers among one of the best for the values on the market. I would recommend Liquitex Basic acrylic paint to anyone using a fair amount of paint in whatever art they create.

A2 Chrome Acrylic Paint

A2 Art Students' Acrylics are another specially designed acrylics for the needs of students, beginners or hobby painters who wish to avoid the expense of buying artists colors, especially during the earlier stages when they are learning how to handle paint. A2 acrylic paint has not been around along as Liquitex's Basic yet still provides the same pigment and consistency as any other professional paint.

A2 derives from the popular brand Atelier, which I have used well. A2 is a little thinner than Liquitex's Basic but it's just as effective. A2 and Liquitex's Basic are similar in a lot of ways, but a little different in body and pigment.

Depending on where you purchase A2 Chrome, you may be able to get it for a lower price than Liquitex's Basic and you will not spend over six dollars for a four ounce tube. I encourage you to try both and see which one you like more.

Chromacyl's Acrylic Essentials

Chromacyl's Acrylic Essentials is the thinnest of the three paints. I know of a lot of artist who add different mediums like molding paste or heavy body gel to enhance the paint.

I really haven't used this brand of paint. I just know that it is thinner and great for creating loose painting and adding appliqu to a surface, sort of like Jackson Pollock. Many school teachers use Chromacyl acrylics for their students, but well known artists use it too.

As with the other two acrylics, it depends on what you are trying to do with your painting. Chromacyl's Acrylic Essentials were developed for the middle school teacher because it has good solubility, intense color, and rich consistency for painting, printing, and sculptures. As an artist you can use Chromacyl's Acrylic Essentials for the same reason - just keep in mind that it is a little thinner than other acrylic brands I mentioned earlier.

All three bands are all great and affordable to use for your paintings whether you are a student, beginner artist or professional. I would suggest that you test them to see what works for you.

I use a palette knife with Liqutex's Basic and Chroma A2 when I might use a more expensive acrylic paint. I add different mediums to these two brands to make the paint thicker and more pliable like Golden or Liquetex's Professional Acrylic Paint, but both paints still work just fine with what I'm trying to do with my palette knife. I'm still able to make nice textures and bold strokes with the Liqutex's Basic and Chroma's A2.

If you are looking for some great paints that are inexpensive, I encourage you to try the three that I mentioned in this article. There are several others out there but I have found these three brands work well for me and for my other artist friends.

If you are an artist or someone who wants to know more about painting with acrylics, sign up and get free weekly painting tips using a palette knife at http://painting-with-a-palette-knife.com

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Drawing and Painting - What is the Difference Between the Two?

Drawing is an art form wherein we create two dimensional figures on any surface using painting tool. There are many painting tools available in the market such as pencil, pen, ink, brush or metals like silver points.

Drawing is a result of mind blowing imagination power of an artist.

You will find a big difference between drawing and painting. Many people consider both things similar, but they are not the same. It is a fact that the same painting tools could be used to draw or paint but still there remain a few dissimilarities.

In painting colours are smeared on canvas or any other surface with the help of painting brush. While in drawing, a dark outline is first drawn on a paper. Hence it can be said that both the form of arts have a separate process that they follow.

While creating a drawing, much of the emphasis is given to composition. Paintings may be used for showing a traditional system of a certain cast or community by use of some basis colour describing different emotions. There are many types of paints available for painting purpose, some of them are oil paints, water colour paints and acrylic paints.

Painting takes more time to create compared to drawings. Drawings are made very quickly and instantly. It saves lots of time hence they are used for commercial purpose. In painting you can apply different colours to make an art work look attractive. While in drawing different colours are used to create different lines.

Drawings are made mainly for commercial purpose. Engineering drawing makes best usage of drawing wherein it is used for construction of a buildings blueprint. Here accurate drawing is very important.

In the era of IT technology, there are tons of software available that helps to create exact drawing in a very less time. Digital drawing has exact accuracy compared to work done manually by an artist.

Are you able to bring your creativity on to your canvas? Will you take action step by step, if I help you to learn drawings and paintings until you succeed? Grab 6 lessons on Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor, Fabric Painting, Pencil Drawing, Color Theory.

To take a look at more articles just like this one, click here: Drawing and Painting

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Western Painting - Tachism - Spontaneous and Non-Geometric Style of Abstract Expressionism

Tachism - The Concept
Tachism, also spelt as Tachisme, comes from the French word 'tache' - meaning stain or spot. Tachism is a style of Abstract Painting that reigned the French Art scene during 1940s and 1950s. Abstraction Lyrique (American Lyrical Abstraction) and L'art Informel (Action Painting) are some of the other names that have been used to describe Tachism. This Western Painting style has also been referred to as the European counterpart to Abstract Expressionism of America. French critics Pierre Guéguen and Charles Estienne, in 1951, are said to have coined the term Tachism. It was also talked about in Michel Tapié's book Un Art autre (1952). The Gutai Group from Japan and the Cobra Group artists are both associated with this art style.

The Artists
Prominent Tachism painters include Hans Hartung (1904-89) and A O Wolfgang Schulze Wols (1913-51), both born in Germany. Wolfgang Schulze (French - born 1913) is also called the spiritual father of 'Tachism.' The other important proponents of Tachism include Georges Mathieu (French - born 1927), Pierre Alechinsky (Belgian - born 1927), Roger Bissière (French - 1888-1964), and Norman Bluhm (American - 1921-99), to name some. Jean Dubuffet (1901-85) was a very famous French avant-garde painter.

He followed Tachism and used oil paints and an impasto, thickened with products, including tar, straw, and sand. This gave his artwork a textured feel that was unique. Another famous Tachiste German painter, Karl Otto Götz (born 1914) was a part of the COBRA group. He later co-founded the Frankfurt 'Quadriga', a group of artists representing a style of Tachism, inspired by the works of Wols and the Automatism style. Tachism heavily inspired Sam Francis (1923-94), an American Abstract Painter, also.

The Correlations
This style of Western Painting was widely followed after World War II in Paris, and continued through the 1950s. The works under this art style carried spontaneous and intuitive brush strokes, similar to Action Painting of the US. Tachism is said to have developed as a Non-Geometric Abstract Art form, a reaction to Cubism.

The Details
Sweeping brush strokes and sometimes the blobs of paint directly from the tube marked Tachism creations. Blots & splashes of colors and scribbling resembling calligraphy, characterize the artworks. Departing from the restrictive Cubist style, the Tachiste painters played around with paint and calligraphy, working with loaded brushes and splashing and spraying colors. Both, elegance & gracefully blended colors, and irregularly sprayed dabs of color on the canvas, characterized artworks under Tachism.

Annette Labedzki received her BFA at the Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. She has more than 25 years experience. She is the founder and developer of an online art gallery featuring original art from all over the world. It is a great site for art collectors to buy original art. Is is also a venue for artists to display and sell their art . Artists can join for free and their image upload is unlimited. Please visit the website at http://www.Labedzki-Art.com.

Annette has bonus offers on her work only. Buy 2 paintings of any size and receive 1 painting of your choice for free of equal size and value. SHIPPING IS FREE IN CANADA AND US ON SMALLER ITEMS. Please feel free to subscribe to her newsletter at http://www.Labedzki-Art.com.

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Abstract Art and Its Three Divisions

In general, abstract art is any form of art that does not have anything to do with the physical things found in the world. Oftentimes, it is viewed as an abstraction of the intrinsic qualities of a physical object and turned into a visual art that does not represent any materialistic value. What the artist does is to take a common object and he either simplifies the object into its smallest possible form or exaggerates it.

The early roots of abstract art will be traced to the 20th century when people drew pictures on dirt. This was made more prevalent by the impressionist movement in art which was later on called abstract impressionism.

Abstract impressionism is a predecessor to surrealism. Abstract impressionism borders o artistic output that is random and has no subject matter to begin with. These drawings, paintings, and sculptures are more of subconscious in origin, meaning they are not works supposed to be grasped through conventional appreciation of what is beautiful. The three main branches or divisions of abstract art are Abstract Cubism, Abstract Neoplasticism, and Abstract Expressionism.

Abstract Cubism is mainly composed not of literal cubes but any geometrical figure to depict what is in the mind of the artist. One aspect of cubism is to split objects in several parts and put them back ion a different form which you will never see in reality. It started in 1908 and attained its height in 1914. The most famous of this type of abstract art were Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque.

Abstract Neoplasticism, on the other hand, stems from a concept or principle that art should never be a copy or reproduction of real objects as we see them through our eyes. It is argued that art should be an expression of what is absolute in life and that these absolutes are either horizontal or vertical lines. The colors used should only be the primary colors and not complicated hues as mixed by contemporary artists or painters. This movement, the neoplasticism as a form of abstract art, occurred in 1910, two years after the birth of cubism. The two most famous painters of this type of abstract art are Piet Mondrian and Theo van Doesburg.

The third division, called Abstract Expressionism, is a reflection of the painter's or artist's personality through random and spontaneous painting. In general, there are two types of abstract expressionism: Action Painting and Color Field Painting. Action painting shows the texture of the paint and how the artist moves as he paints the masterpiece. The most famous action painter is John Pollock. On the other hand, a color field painter is much more concerned on the shapes he uses to come up with a masterpiece and the artist is very particular with the colors used in the painting. The name that comes to mind whenever color field painting is mentioned is mark Rothko.

In summary, the thing that separates abstract art from other art forms is that it is not tangible and physical in nature. It is much more concerned on the depths of the human psychology and spirit and these works of art are painted in random behavior and spontaneity.

Mark Traston is an associate with Portrait Painting. The company specializes in turning a photo to painting. Each portrait artist specializes in a specific area including wedding paintings, pet portraits, and executive portraits.

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