Textured Art Supplies
The range of textured art supplies isn’t limited, but comes with a wide variety. Gesso and modelling paste help to build up the texture on a canvas, offering a base for extraordinary 3D effects. Palette knives and brushes of varying shapes and sizes offer differing textural effects. Papers and canvas with coarse or rough surfaces can create a unique textural element in the art piece. Additionally, found objects, such as twigs, fabric scraps, or bottle caps can also contribute to the tactile quality of the artwork.
Benefits of Using Texture in Art
Deliberate incorporation of texture heightens the viewer’s sensory experience. Most importantly, it gives a dimensional aspect to flat images, making them appear more life-like. Moreover, texture stimulates the visual-tactile interaction, inviting viewers to ‘feel’ the work with their eyes. Texture also guides the viewer’s eye around the artwork, creating emphasis and contrast.
Popular Textured Art Techniques
Impasto Painting
Impasto, a timeless painting technique, makes full use of texture. Artists apply thick layers of paint, typically with a palette knife, causing visible brushstroke textures on the canvas. Acrylics and oils are favorites for this method, relished for their thick consistency and slow drying times. This technique gives a 3D effect to flat surfaces, allowing viewers to perceive the artwork from both visual and tactile perspectives. For instance, Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night exhibits a spectacular display of Impasto painting.
Collage Art
Another technique capturing the essence of texture is collage art, where artists arrange an assortment of materials on a surface. These materials range from textured papers, photographs, to fabric and found objects. By piecing together these elements, an artist can dictate the feel of the work beyond aesthetics, enticing viewers to not only look but touch. For instance, the layered mix-media work of Kurt Schwitters showcases the beauty of collage art.
Choosing the Right Textured Art Supplies
Factors to Consider When Buying
It’s crucial to understand your requirements before purchasing textured art supplies. Consider the materials’ quality, and compare prices to ensure you’re getting the most value for your money. Additionally, factor in the nature of your artistic project; the needed supplies could drastically differ if you’re creating an Impasto painting versus a collage art piece.
- Quality: High-quality supplies tend to produce richer textures and more durable artworks. They not only allow for better control of textures but also withstand the test of time. Acrylic gesso and modeling paste, for instance, should retain their texture and not crack or peel off with time.
- Price: While quality supplies might command a higher price, it’s important to balance cost with quality. Buying cheaper items may compromise the quality of your work. Nonetheless, some affordable brands deliver excellent performance.
- Nature of the Artwork: Are you working on a broad canvas or a small piece of paper? Are you aiming for subtle textures or bold, striking lines? For example, palette knives are excellent for creating thick textures on large canvases, while fine-textured brushes might be more appropriate for smaller, detailed works.
- Durability: Tools like palette knives and high-grade brushes can last a long time if properly maintained. So, it might be worth investing a bit more in these if they’re intended for regular use.
Recommended Brands and Products
Here are some brands and products synonymous with top-notch textured art supplies, given their quality, affordability, and durability.
| Brand | Product | Description |
| Winsor & Newton | Professional Acrylic Gesso | Known for its high-quality, this gesso provides excellent surface preparation, offering a balance between absorption and solid grounding. |
| Liquitex | Modeling Paste | This versatile and non-toxic modeling paste is ideal for building heavy textures on rigid supports and creating three-dimensional forms. |
| Matisse | Structure Formula Acrylics | A high viscosity, pigment loaded, thick acrylic paint designed for textural, Impasto and printing applications. |
| Van Beek | Artist Palette Knife Set | This is a complete 5-piece set for a variety of palette knife techniques from light texturing to heavy Impasto. |
This task is made less daunting when you’re informed about the specific requirements of the project at hand and know what to look for while purchasing the supplies.
