Wanderlust Collective

ACRYLICS

For Artistic Expression

MAR 22/The Wanderlust Collective/

Acrylics, Art, Art History, Education

Acrylic paint is somewhat a modern medium for artistic impression. I love the pops of color and fast drying time that this medium provides. It’s my go to for multimedia projects, and even my figurative art pieces.

"Pear for Two" -Margie Resto

"Fast Forward" -Margie Resto

Acrylic offers its own distinct set of characteristics. It’s mostly favored for its versatility and durability. Many artists use acrylics in their works because of its bright colors, lines and sharp brushstrokes not to mention its use on a multitude of surfaces.

"View From My Window Study" -Margie Resto

“Acrylic is the only painting medium that can be all mediums - it can act like watercolour, it can act like oils, and it has its own innate properties.”

Andrew Hamilton

David Alfaro Siquieros

Jackson Pollock

In the 1920s and 1930s Mexican muralists started to experiment with the medium. Artists like David Alfaro Siquieros, who also held workshops in New York City to check out the latest methods of application. One of the artists who attended his workshop was Jackson Pollock, who went on to use synthetic gloss enamel paints for his drip and pouring techniques. By the late 1940s Leonard Boccur and Sam Golden offered a great version of acrylic paints and sold it under the name Magna. Back then it was mineral spirit based instead of water.

Many famous artists used acrylics, like Mark Rotho, Roy Lichtenstien, Andy Warhol, and David Hockney just to name a few.

"Camouflage" -Andy Warhol

Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash

By 1955 the first available water based paint hit the market. In the late 20th century acrylics became popular and were used to start movements like pop culture, abstract expressionism, and pop art. This medium could be mixed, different textures and consistencies could be done, the possibilities were endless.

Acrylic paints have opened up a whole new creative movement and possibilities and is a strong influence today. If you are new to using these paints and are interested in learning all about this awesome medium check out our courses by clicking the button below!!

Acrylics Bundle