The art of painting involves applying pigments to a solid surface, generally with a brush but other implements may be used. It is one of the oldest creative arts and has endured for millennia. Throughout the centuries, artists have developed an endless number of techniques and styles to create unique works of art that reflect their beliefs, cultures, and ways of viewing the world around them.
Some of the most popular painting styles include realism, abstraction and abstract expressionism. Having a good understanding of these different styles can help aspiring artists find their own style that is all their own.
Realism is the representation of objects or scenes as they appear in nature or contemporary life. It rejects imaginative idealization in favor of close observation of outward appearances and has been a dominant artistic technique since the Renaissance. Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is a perfect example of this art style.
Abstract expressionist paintings, on the other hand, actively shun realism and embrace the subjective. This painting style uses colors, shapes and textures to depict the subject as the artist interprets it. Georgia O’Keeffe, for instance, was an abstract painter who was known for her flowers and shells that resemble dreamy landscapes.
Another popular style is collage, which uses bits of paper and other materials to make a design on a canvas or board. It can be a fun way to explore different color combinations and patterns. Artists can also use this technique to build up layers of paint and add depth to a piece of work.
Watercolor painting is another easy and accessible style of art that is very useful for beginners. This painting technique can be used to create soft, ethereal landscapes and florals as well as portraits and detailed cityscapes. The beauty of watercolor is that it allows the artist to experiment with different shades and hues without worrying about oversaturation.
Other painterly styles that are worth exploring include drip painting, splattering and mixed media. Using a palette knife, rag or even an old toothbrush to splatter paint on a canvas is a great way to add texture and a sense of spontaneity to a piece of artwork. Mixing media, such as sand or egg shells with paint, can also be an effective way to create interesting texture and depth in a painting.
Many artists have created their own unique style of painting by combining several of these painting techniques together. For example, some have used splatter to create abstract shapes and colors that are all their own while others have combined elements of realism with a more impressionist approach to the subject matter of their paintings. By learning about these different painting styles and then experimenting with them yourself, you will be able to discover your own distinctive artistic voice.