Painting is one of the most venerated forms of art, and one of the oldest. Since humanity’s first steps on this planet we have painted, ancient cave paintings show our desire to express ourselves even in our earliest days.
Painting is the practice of applying paint, pigment, colour or other medium to a solid surface. The medium is commonly applied to the base with a brush, but other implements, such as knives, sponges, and airbrushes, can be used. In art, the term “painting” describes both the act and the result of the action.
The modern day is no different, painting is at the very core of how humans express their hopes, dreams, fears, and emotions. With time has come a slew of different styles, mediums, and subjects that have seen the art of painting diversify and evolve. Today, painting is as highly regarded as ever, with many different schools and techniques producing art in wildly differing ways.
COMMON PAINTING STYLES:
Realism – Realism is a painting art style that aims to give the viewer a reflection of the real world
Expressionism – Expressionism is a style of art that doesn’t concern itself with realism, images and scenes are often distorted or painted with otherworldly, vivid colours that don’t match up with reality. The focus is instead on the artist’s ideas or feelings, which are expressed through the medium of art.
Abstract – Whatever the subject in the painting, it may not be accurately represented at all in the artwork. Objects may be represented by a colour or a shape instead, with the interpretation left up to the viewer.
Surrealism – Surrealism first became a movement in the 20th century, with artists such as Salvador Dali becoming household names. Combining abstract concepts with semi-realistic objects that have been twisted or morphed into something unusual, they can be illogical or dreamlike, giving the viewer a heightened sense of reality.
Pop Art – From 1950’s pop art has gained prominence wherein artists use cartoons or adverts like Anime’s with realistic imagery and bold colors
COMMON PAINTING MEDIUMS:
Oil – One of the oldest mediums. Remains popular to this day. Some of the most famous paintings were done in Oil.
Watercolour – Inexpensive to oils and diluted with water. Work very nicely with light and often used to paint landscapes and cityscapes
Acrylic – This is a relatively new medium in use since the 1940’s. Dries quickly, is versatile and also paintings are durable
Pastel – Mostly come in the form of a stick of powdered pigmentation which is then pressed onto the surface to apply the colour.
Spray Paint–Spray painting is also a new form using spray paint and associated often with street art or graffiti.
At Artshaala we deal with a variety of styles and mediums. Explore our programs to start your journey into the world of art.