20 Random Facts About Acrylic Painting and Art

Here are 20 interesting, unexpected, and downright fascinating facts about acrylic painting and the broader world of art. Whether you're an artist yourself or simply an art enthusiast, these insights will give you a fresh perspective on acrylic techniques, famous artists, and artistic innovations.

1. Acrylic Paints Were a Game Changer in the 1940s

Acrylic paints were first developed in the 1940s, providing artists with a fast-drying alternative to traditional oil paints. Their quick drying time and versatile texture make them a favourite for modern painters.

2. Van Gogh’s Brushwork Echoes Today’s Loose and Bold Styles

Vincent van Gogh, known for his expressive brushwork, inspired the loose and bold styles we see in acrylic painting today. His emotive strokes captured energy and feeling, something many acrylic artists aim to replicate.

3. Colour Temperature Affects Depth

Did you know that warmer colours like red and orange tend to come forward, while cooler colours like blue recede? This understanding of colour temperature is crucial for creating depth and dimension in paintings.

4. Ken Done Brings Australian Vibes to Art

Australian artist Ken Done is famous for his use of vibrant, bold colours that reflect a uniquely Australian aesthetic. His works are often bursting with life and energy, making him a true master of bold expression.

5. Gel Mediums Add Texture Without Changing Saturation

Gel medium is a fantastic tool for acrylic painters, as it can extend drying time and add texture without changing the colour’s saturation. Perfect for those looking to add depth without affecting their colour palette.

6. Phthalo Blue is a Potent Pigment

Phthalo Blue is one of the most intense pigments available. Just a small amount can completely alter a mix, so use it sparingly to maintain balance in your colours.

7. Leonardo da Vinci Valued Sketching

Leonardo da Vinci left behind over 6,000 pages of sketches, highlighting the importance of preparation and experimentation in art. A quick sketch session can help you plan and improve your final work.

8. The “White” of the Eye is Rarely Pure White

In painting, the white of the eye (the sclera) is often shaded with subtle blues, greys, or browns. This adds realism and avoids the unnatural starkness that pure white can bring.

9. Pet Portraits Date Back to Ancient Egypt

One of the first recorded pet portraits was commissioned by the ancient Egyptians. This early art form reflects humanity’s long-standing love for capturing beloved animals in artwork.

10. “Value Does All the Work, But Colour Gets All the Credit”

This famous quote is often attributed to artist Harley Brown and underscores the importance of value (lightness and darkness) in creating strong compositions, even when colour draws the most attention.

11. Avoid Overusing Black Paint for Shadows

Overusing black paint can dull a painting’s vibrancy. Many artists prefer to mix complementary colours to create rich, dark shadows that add depth without compromising the painting’s warmth.

12. Negative Painting Enhances Focus

Negative painting, where the subject is created by painting around it, can sharpen the focus on your main subject. This technique is often used to define shapes in a subtle, natural way.

13. Optical Blending Creates Vivid Colour

Optical blending happens when two colours are placed side by side, allowing the eye to blend them. Used by the Impressionists, this technique adds vibrancy and dimension to colour fields.

14. Fluid Acrylics for Fine Detail and Layering

Fluid acrylics have a thinner consistency than heavy body paints, making them ideal for fine linework, glazing, and layered effects. They’re perfect for artists who love detailed, intricate work.

15. Quinacridone Pigments are Vibrant and Transparent

Quinacridone pigments, like Quinacridone Magenta, are known for their vibrancy and transparency, making them perfect for layering and glazing techniques that require depth and luminosity.

16. Gel Medium Extends Paint and Reduces Waste

Gel medium is a great cost-effective option for artists as it helps extend the life of your paint. By mixing it with your acrylics, you can cover more area without using as much pigment.

17. Subdued Tones Create a Calming Effect

Using subdued tones is a great way to create a calming and harmonious composition. These tones neutralise the intensity of colours and add depth without overpowering the painting.

18. Vary Brushstroke Direction for Realistic Fur

When painting fur, varying the direction and length of your brushstrokes helps convey texture and realism. This technique adds movement and avoids the “flat” look that uniform strokes can create.

19. Matte and Satin Mediums Change Acrylic’s Glossy Finish

Acrylic paint is naturally glossy, but you can alter this finish by adding matte or satin mediums. These mediums allow you to achieve specific effects and match the mood of your piece.

20. Sir Sidney Nolan Simplified Forms for Impact

Australian artist Sir Sidney Nolan used simplified forms and flat planes of colour in his work, creating a dynamic yet simple composition. His style demonstrates that less can be more when it comes to expressive art.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an artist or an admirer of art, these facts about acrylic painting offer new insights into techniques, historical tidbits, and ways to enhance your own creative journey. From mastering colour temperature to understanding the benefits of gel mediums, there’s always something new to explore in the world of acrylics.

Until next time, Keep splashing colours!
Penny 😊🎨✨