Painting is a method of expression that involves the creation of an image or object on a surface with the use of a paintbrush or other materials. It is one of the oldest forms of communication. There are a number of painting styles, including still life painting and abstract paintings. Throughout the history of mankind, painting has been used to express beliefs and to document daily life.
In the ancient world, paintings were primarily used to depict landscapes and animals. This was the first form of communication in primitive society. Ancient cultures also used paint to depict rituals and ward off danger. The ancient Egyptians used painting to convey their beliefs.
During the Neolithic period, painting began to decline because of the development of agriculture. Eventually, the Romans perfected the art of painting. They developed a style based on a hieratic and schematic style. Some Roman murals showed scenes of great expressive strength. However, the classical Greek style of painting was abandoned when the Romans were influenced by the Christian religion.
Modern painters often incorporate metal, wood and other materials into their work. These modern painters also experiment with other forms of art. One technique is called matte painting. Another is called encaustic, which is done by applying colored pigments to a prepared wooden surface. Various waxes and resins are usually added to the mixture.
Other artists use different media, such as ink, to create their paintings. While many Western cultures prefer oil paintings, other Eastern cultures have long held traditions in ink.
Some painters have specialized in a particular type of painting, such as the Renaissance painters. Others have written their own color theory. Many painters continue to create important works of art. As modern technology develops, painters have developed new techniques and expanded their practice.
Oil paint has been around since prehistoric times. It is a smooth medium that has a rich scent. When it dries, it becomes water resistant. Unlike acrylics, it dries slowly, which can make the artist work more slowly. During certain techniques, the slow drying time can be a positive attribute.
Watercolor is a form of painting that combines drawing and composition. Paint is a mixture of pigments and an emulsion of water, a solvent and an organic binder. An opaque watercolor medium, gouache, is also available. Acrylic paints can be diluted with water, but may not produce the look the artist wants.
Face paint is another popular painting technique. People wear face paint that looks like inspissated hunks of paint or phlegm. For some people, face paint sticks to the skin like pine sap or flypaper.
Depending on the era, painting could be done manually with brushes or by hand. Often, a painter will have two brushes in his or her hand at the same time. Alternatively, the painter could spray the paint onto a canvas.
A growing community of computer “painters” is using computers to “paint” color onto digital canvases. Despite earlier declarations of its demise, painting is alive and thriving.