Turning your passion for art into a sustainable business is an exciting yet challenging journey. Whether you’re a painter, illustrator, or digital artist, knowing how to make art as a business requires strategy, persistence, and the right tools. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can transform your creativity into a thriving profession.

Why Consider Art as Business?

Many artists struggle with the misconception that making money from art compromises creativity. However, turning your art into a business can actually give you more freedom to create what you love while sustaining your livelihood. The key is to approach it strategically.

Steps to Make Art as a Business

1. Define Your Art Niche

Finding your niche helps you stand out in a crowded market. Consider specializing in areas such as:

Tip: Research your competition and understand market demand to position yourself effectively.

2. Build Your Online Presence

A strong online presence is crucial for any artist looking to sell their work. Here’s what you need:

How to make art as a business - Become an art content creator
Become an art content creator

3. Sell Your Artwork Online

There are multiple ways to sell your artwork, including:

Platform TypeExamples
MarketplacesEtsy, Redbubble, Society6
Own WebsiteShopify, WooCommerce, Squarespace
CommissionsSocial media, personal website
NFTs & Digital ArtOpenSea, Foundation, Rarible

4. Monetize with Teaching & Content Creation

Besides selling artwork, you can generate income by:

5. Establish a Pricing Strategy

Pricing your art is often tricky. Consider these factors:

Example Pricing Formula:

(Material Cost + Hourly Rate × Hours Spent) × Profit Margin = Final Price

6. Promote & Market Your Art

Marketing is essential to make art as business. Here’s how to get started:

Conclusion

Making art a business is possible with the right mindset and strategies. By building an online presence, selling through various channels, and using smart marketing techniques, you can turn your passion into a full-time career.

Are you ready to start your art business? Let us know in the comments!

Introduction

AI Painting vs Traditional Painting: Compare speed, creativity, uniqueness & value. Discover the pros & cons of both art forms in this in-depth guide.

The world of art is evolving rapidly with the rise of AI-generated artwork. Many artists and enthusiasts now find themselves comparing AI painting to traditional painting, weighing the pros and cons of each medium. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences, advantages, and limitations of both art forms.

What is AI Painting?

AI painting refers to artwork generated by artificial intelligence using algorithms and machine learning. These AI models analyze vast amounts of artistic data to create original pieces, mimicking styles from classical to modern digital art. AI-generated paintings can be made in minutes, making the creative process more accessible than ever.

What is Traditional Painting?

Traditional painting, on the other hand, involves physical materials such as acrylic, oil, or watercolor on a canvas. This form of art requires skill, patience, and years of practice. It embodies human expression, texture, and depth that AI may struggle to replicate authentically.


Comparing AI Painting to Traditional Painting

FeatureAI PaintingTraditional Painting
Creation TimeMinutes to hoursDays to weeks
Skill RequirementMinimal for users, but AI is trained on human-made artRequires years of practice
UniquenessOften based on existing data, risk of repetitionCompletely unique, handmade pieces
Emotional ExpressionLacks deep emotional connectionRich in personal touch and expression
CustomizationHighly adaptable with instant modificationsCustomization requires manual effort
Market ValueGrowing, but still debated in fine artEstablished value in art history

Advantages of AI Painting

  1. Speed & Efficiency – AI can generate multiple artworks in a short time.
  2. Accessibility – Anyone can create art using AI tools, even without artistic training.
  3. Endless Styles & Variations – AI can mimic any art style with precision.
  4. Cost-Effective – No need for expensive materials like canvases and paints.
AI Painting vs Traditional Painting: Made with AI
Made with Leonardo AI

Advantages of Traditional Painting

  1. Authenticity & Emotion – Traditional paintings capture the artist’s emotions and intent.
  2. Tactile Experience – The physical act of painting provides a deep artistic connection.
  3. Investment & Value – Traditional paintings hold long-term value and historical significance.
  4. Mastery & Skill Development – Learning traditional painting enhances creativity and hand coordination.

Image: A Traditional Acrylic Painting by JMLisondra

AI Painting vs Traditional Painting: Traditional oil painting by jmlisondra
Traditional oil painting by jmlisondra titled: Uptown kids

Challenges of AI and Traditional Painting

AI Painting Challenges

Traditional Painting Challenges


AI Painting vs Traditional Painting: Which One Wins?

The choice between AI painting and traditional painting depends on your goals:

Both have a place in the modern art world, and many artists even blend AI-generated concepts with traditional techniques for unique results.

Internal Links

External Links


Conclusion

AI painting vs traditional painting is not about choosing one over the other but understanding their strengths and limitations. Whether you’re an artist exploring new tools or a collector valuing handcrafted art, both AI and traditional painting have a place in the creative world.

What’s your opinion on AI-generated art? Let us know in the comments below!


If you’re looking for inspiration, insight, and a glimpse into the lives of artists, there’s nothing better than watching movies about art. These films, often rooted in the struggles, triumphs, and creativity of artists, are perfect for sparking ideas and feeding your creative soul. Below is a list of 10 incredible art movies that every visual artist should watch.

Why Watch Movies About Art?

Movies about art not only entertain but also educate. They provide visual artists with:

Whether you’re a painter, sculptor, or designer, these movies about artist life are sure to resonate with you.


1. The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965)

Genre: Drama
Why Watch: This classic movie depicts the life of Michelangelo and his struggle while painting the Sistine Chapel. It’s a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the Renaissance era.

Notable Scene: Michelangelo arguing with Pope Julius II over artistic freedom is a powerful moment showcasing the tension between art and authority.

📺 Watch the trailer here

Michaelangelo painting the sistine chapel - art

2. Frida (2002)

Genre: Biographical Drama
Why Watch: Salma Hayek delivers a stunning performance as Frida Kahlo, diving deep into the pain and passion of this iconic Mexican artist.

Highlight: The film’s vibrant visual style mirrors Frida’s surrealist and autobiographical art.

💡 External link: Learn more about Frida Kahlo’s life here.


3. Pollock (2000)

Genre: Biopic
Why Watch: This movie portrays the life of abstract expressionist Jackson Pollock. From his rise to fame to his struggles with addiction, it’s an emotional journey into the life of an artist.

🎨 Art Tip: Abstract art lovers can take notes from Pollock’s unique drip painting technique.


4. Loving Vincent (2017)

Genre: Animation, Biography
Why Watch: The first fully painted animated film in history, this masterpiece pays tribute to Vincent van Gogh. Every frame is hand-painted in his signature style.

Fun Fact: Over 125 artists worked to create this film.

📊 Table: Loving Vincent Key Details

FeatureDescription
TechniqueOil painting animation
Artists Involved125+
Runtime95 minutes

5. The Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)

Genre: Historical Drama
Why Watch: Inspired by Johannes Vermeer’s famous painting, this film explores the mysterious relationship between the artist and his muse.

Highlight: The cinematography beautifully replicates Vermeer’s play of light and color.


6. Basquiat (1996)

Genre: Biopic
Why Watch: This movie delves into the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat, chronicling his rise from a graffiti artist to a renowned painter in New York’s art scene.

Inspiration for Visual Artists: The film captures the vibrancy and raw energy of street art.


7. Big Eyes (2014)

Genre: Biographical Drama
Why Watch: Directed by Tim Burton, this film tells the story of Margaret Keane and her struggle for recognition in a male-dominated art world.

Highlight: It’s a great commentary on artistic ownership and integrity.


8. At Eternity’s Gate (2018)

Genre: Biopic
Why Watch: Willem Dafoe’s portrayal of Vincent van Gogh provides an intimate look into the artist’s mental health and creativity during his final years.

📺 Watch the official trailer here


9. Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010)

Genre: Documentary
Why Watch: Banksy’s documentary offers a raw and often humorous look into the world of street art and commercialism.

🎥 Highlight: Explore how street art evolved into a global phenomenon.


10. Mr. Turner (2014)

Genre: Biographical Drama
Why Watch: A visual treat, this film portrays the life of J.M.W. Turner, a revolutionary painter of light.

🎨 Visual Artists’ Takeaway: The movie showcases Turner’s groundbreaking approach to landscapes and color.


Final Thoughts

Whether you’re searching for inspiration or seeking insight into the lives of iconic artists, these movies about art offer valuable lessons and breathtaking visuals. Watching them is like diving into a canvas, immersing yourself in stories of creativity, passion, and perseverance.

🎥 Related Reading:

🔗 External Resources:

Make sure to grab your favorite snack, set up your canvas for some quick sketches, and let these movies inspire your next masterpiece!


Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for free painting tutorials and artistic inspiration.

Are you passionate about capturing the beauty of everyday objects on canvas? Whether you’re a beginner eager to explore the world of acrylic painting or an advanced artist looking to refine your skills, our comprehensive free painting tutorials are designed to guide you through the enchanting process of creating stunning still-life compositions. With easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips, you’ll learn how to paint still-life with precision and creativity.

Why Choose Acrylic Painting?

Acrylic painting is a versatile medium that allows artists to explore a wide range of techniques, from delicate washes to bold impasto. Its quick-drying nature and vibrant colors make it an excellent choice for still-life paintings, where capturing the essence of objects with detail and depth is key. Our free acrylic painting lessons offer you the perfect opportunity to delve into this exciting art form, whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills.

Step-by-Step Tutorials for Every Artist

We understand that learning a new technique can be daunting, which is why our free painting tutorials are structured to suit artists of all levels. Each tutorial is broken down into manageable steps, ensuring that you can follow along at your own pace and develop your own style. Below, we present three carefully selected lessons that cover different aspects of still-life painting.


1. How to Paint Still-life with Flowers in Glass Jar in Acrylics

In this tutorial, you will learn how to paint still-life with a focus on capturing the delicate beauty of flowers arranged in a glass jar. This lesson is perfect for those who want to master the play of light and transparency in their paintings. With detailed explanations on color mixing and brush techniques, this tutorial will guide you through the entire process, from sketching your composition to adding the final touches.


2. Still Life with a Silver Teapot and Glass Cup in Real Time Acrylic Painting Tutorial

For those looking to challenge themselves, this real-time tutorial offers an in-depth look at painting metallic and glass objects. You’ll learn how to achieve a realistic shine on the silver teapot and the reflective qualities of the glass cup. This lesson is ideal for artists who want to develop their skills in rendering different textures and materials in acrylic painting.


3. How to Paint Realistic Still Life with Fish, Garlic, Onion, and Tomatoes in Acrylic

This advanced tutorial takes you through the steps of painting a complex still-life composition featuring various food items. From the scales of the fish to the papery skin of the garlic, you’ll discover techniques for creating realistic textures and vibrant colors. This lesson is perfect for artists who are ready to take their still-life painting to the next level.


Expand Your Skills with More Lessons

If you’re hungry for more easy acrylic painting tutorials, we have a wealth of resources available to help you continue your artistic journey. Our collection of free acrylic painting lessons covers a wide range of subjects and techniques, ensuring that you’ll find something to inspire you.

Explore more still-life acrylic painting tutorials here.

Why Follow Our Tutorials?

Our tutorials are designed to make still-life painting accessible to everyone. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or you’re a seasoned artist looking to refine your skills, our step-by-step approach ensures that you can achieve stunning results. Plus, with our free painting tutorials, you can learn at your own pace without any financial commitment.

Conclusion

Still-life painting is a timeless genre that allows artists to capture the beauty of the everyday. With our free acrylic painting tutorials, you’ll not only learn how to paint still-life but also develop a deeper appreciation for the art form. So grab your brushes and start your artistic journey today!

Subscribe and watch more on my youtube channel.

Becoming an art content creator, especially in the realm of painting, is a fulfilling journey that combines your passion for art with the ability to share your creativity with a global audience. In this guide, we will explore the steps, tools, and strategies needed to kickstart your journey as an art content creator.

Getting Started

Define Your Niche as Art Content Creator

Before diving into content creation, it’s crucial to identify your niche. Are you focusing on acrylic painting, watercolor, digital art, or mixed media? Defining your niche helps attract a dedicated audience interested in your specific art style.

Essential Skills

To become a successful art content creator, you should have:

Equipment and Materials

Creating high-quality content requires the right equipment. Here’s a breakdown of the essential tools you’ll need:

Cameras and Accessories

EquipmentDescriptionRecommended Models
Camera HD VideoA camcorder that can record for many hours continuously. You can make hour long tutorials.Panasonic HC-V770, Sony 4K HD FDRAX33, Panasonic HC-V180K
Camera for PhotoA high-quality camera is crucial for capturing your artwork in detail.Nikon D5300, Nikon D3500
TripodEnsures stability and consistent framing.Camera Tripod, Flexible Foldable Desk Mount Stand Metal Bracket
LightingProper lighting highlights your artwork. You can create your own DIY lights.Ring Light
MicrophoneClear audio enhances the viewer experience.MAONO Compact Wireless Lavalier Microphone

Art Supplies

SuppliesDescriptionRecommended Brands
PaintsDepending on your medium, choose high-quality paints.Liquitex Basics, Pebeo Studio Opaque, Sakura
BrushesA variety of brushes for different techniques.Assorted Brushes
Canvas/PaperSuitable surfaces for your artwork.Any size but not more than 12×16.
EaselKeeps your canvas steady while painting.Any easel stand as long as your comfortable

You can check all my recommended materials on amazon here.

Creating Your Studio Setup

A well-organized studio setup improves your workflow and enhances the quality of your videos. Ensure your workspace has:

Recording and Editing Your Videos

Recording Tips

Editing Software

Editing is where you refine your footage. Here are some popular options:

Building Your Online Presence

Social Media Platforms

Choose platforms that align with your content and audience. Popular choices include:

Consistency and Engagement

Conclusion

Becoming an art content creator involves more than just artistic talent. It requires the right equipment, strategic planning, and consistent effort. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to start sharing your art with the world and building a loyal audience.

Additional Resources

For a visual demonstration of setting up your art studio and recording process, check out the video below:

Art Content Creator

Embark on your journey as an art content creator today and inspire others with your creativity!


This guide is designed to help you start and grow as an art content creator. By following these steps and leveraging the right tools, you’ll be on your way to building a successful online presence. Happy creating!

PS: Do you want to explore other vlogging ideas? You can check this article to find unsaturated vlogging niche in 2024.

Welcome to our comprehensive collection of painting tutorials that will help you master the art of capturing the beauty of beaches and crashing waves. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced artist, these step-by-step exercises will provide you with the skills and techniques needed to create stunning coastal landscapes. So grab your brushes and let’s dive in!

Why Paint Beaches and Crashing Waves?

Beaches and crashing waves are a popular subject for artists due to their dynamic nature and the sense of tranquility they evoke. Capturing the movement of waves and the play of light on the water can be both challenging and rewarding. By practicing these exercises, you will not only improve your painting skills but also learn to observe and appreciate the subtle nuances of coastal scenery.

Materials You Will Need

Before we begin, let’s make sure you have all the necessary materials to complete these painting exercises:

MaterialsDescription
Canvas or any Painting SurfaceChoose a size that suits your preference. I mostly used 12×14 inches for my tutorials
Acrylic PaintsI used student grades like Sakura, Liquitex Basics and Pebeo Studio
Paint BrushesMy brushes are assorted.
PaletteFor mixing and blending of colors
PaletteThis is optional for textures
WaterI just use water for cleaning and even mixing to paints
EaselOptional, for comfortable painting
You can check full lists of materials here.

Painting Tutorial: Beach and Crashing Waves

In this tutorial, we will start with a serene and calm beach scene. Follow these steps to create a peaceful coastal landscape:

  1. Prepare your canvas by applying a thin layer of gesso to prime the surface.
  2. Sketch the basic outline of the beach, including the shoreline and any prominent features such as rocks or cliffs.
  3. Begin by painting the sky using light blue and white tones. Gradually add more depth and variation to create a realistic sky.
  4. Mix different shades of blue, green, and white to create the colors of the water. Apply the paint with broad strokes to capture the movement of the waves.
  5. Add details to the beach, such as sand, seashells, or beach grass. Use a combination of warm colors to create depth and texture.
  6. Enhance the overall composition by adding any additional elements, such as a distant sailboat or birds in the sky.
  7. Allow the painting to dry completely before making any final adjustments or adding highlights.
  8. Step back and admire your calm beach scene!

You can watch the full lessons below for your practice. Enjoy!

Fisherman on red boat
Sunset beach with sailboat and crashing waves
Rocky Beach and Crashing Waves
Rocky beach and crashing waves 2

You can also check more lessons here on my website.

Additional Tips and Techniques

Here are some additional tips and techniques to help you improve your beach and crashing waves paintings:

For more advanced techniques and inspiration, you can explore more free lessons on my youtube channel ART OF JOHN MAGNE LISONDRA, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE!

Conclusion

By following these painting exercises and incorporating the tips and techniques mentioned, you will be well on your way to mastering the art of painting beaches and crashing waves. Remember, practice is key, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. With each stroke of your brush, you will gain confidence and improve your skills. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and let the beauty of coastal landscapes inspire your artwork!

Waterfalls, with their cascading power and serene beauty, have captivated artists for centuries. Capturing their essence on canvas, however, can seem daunting. But fear not, aspiring landscape painters! This comprehensive guide will equip you with the skills and techniques to master waterfall painting in acrylics, transforming your blank canvas into a breathtaking masterpiece.

Before We Begin:

Step-by-Step:

1. Sketch the Landscape:

2. Establish the Background:

3. Paint the Rocks:

4. Capture the Power of Water:

5. Bring the Landscape to Life:

6. Enhance the Mood:

Pro Tips:

Tutorial Collections Below:

Waterfalls and Rushing River
House with waterfalls
How to paint rocky mountain and waterfalls in acrylics?
How to paint landscape with autumn birch tree with waterfalls?
Landscape painting tutorial on how to paint autumn waterfalls

With dedication and these helpful steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of waterfall painting in acrylics. Remember, practice makes perfect, so grab your brushes, unleash your creativity, and let the beauty of cascading water flow onto your canvas!

Happy painting!

You can check my Youtube Channel for more FREE Lessons.

Acrylics are a fast-drying, water-resistant medium that’s great for creating works of art that you can display almost anywhere. If you’re interested in painting with acrylics but don’t know where to start, try exploring the world of trees. Trees are one of the most popular subjects among acrylic artists and for good reason: There is something soothing about their simple symmetry and endless variations.

Ideally, every artist has their own personal set of tree-inspired artwork hanging somewhere on their wall at home. But if that isn’t currently the case, it doesn’t mean you have to wait any longer to get started. In this blog post, we will show you how to paint a tree in acrylics using step-by-step instructions so you can get started right away.

Choose Your Color Scheme

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When it comes to a painting of a tree, it’s important to first decide on a color scheme. There are thousands of different color combinations you could use to paint your tree, but the best option is generally to choose two or three colors that compliment each other well. Having a theme in mind will help you create a consistent and cohesive painting. When you’re deciding on a color scheme, you should consider the season and the mood you want to convey.

For example, you can create a piece that embodies the autumn season by using rich oranges and reds, or paint a calming blue-green tree to represent the spring. You could also paint a vibrant, tropical tree in bold, tropical colors. No matter what you choose, keep in mind that the colors of your painting will affect the mood that is created by your artwork.

Sketch Out Your Painting (Can be optional)

Before you jump into painting, it’s important to first sketch out your tree painting. Although the final product can be more spontaneous, there is really no replacement for a good sketch. It will help you to plan out both the composition and the details of your painting, while also allowing you to play around with different ideas and paint samples before committing to a final piece. For your sketch, you’ll want to draw out the various elements of your tree.

For example, you can sketch out the roots, trunk, branches, and leaves. Alternatively, you can focus on just one specific area of the tree, such as a single branch. Once you are finished sketching out your tree, you can draw guidelines on a piece of paper to help you further plan out your composition.

Lay Down the Background (Can be optional)

Before you start painting the details of your tree, you’ll want to create a background for your painting. This will help to establish a sense of depth in your artwork, as well as give your tree a more realistic appearance. There are many different ways you can create a background for your painting, such as by adding a colour wash or brushstrokes or by applying a coloured gel.

If you decide to create a wash, you can mix up your colour of choice with some water to create a consistency that can be applied easily. If you want to create a wash that is brighter, you can also try adding a drop of white acrylic paint to your colour of choice. Once you have your wash applied to the painting, let it dry so the paint can fully absorb into the paper before going on to the next step.

Paint the Trunk and Branches

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After you’ve applied your background, it’s time to start painting the trunk and branches of your tree. For the trunk, you’ll want to use a darker, richer colour than what you would use for the leaves, with a mix of blue and yellow being a popular choice. If you want to create a more realistic effect, try applying a thin layer of transparent paint over a thicker layer of the same colour. This will help to create a bark-like texture and add more realism to your tree.

For the branches, you can paint them in a variety of different colours and patterns, depending on what you’re aiming to create. Green and yellow are popular choices, but you can also try experimenting with colours like red, orange, and blue if you want to create a more tropical-looking tree.

Add the Leaves and Details

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For the final steps of your painting, you’ll want to add the leaves and any other details your tree may have, such as flowers or fruit. For the leaves, you can mix up various colours of green to create a more autumnal look, or try using colours like yellow, blue, and red to create a more tropical tree. You can also try painting the leaves in multiple colours to create a more abstract appearance.

When it comes to adding any other details to your tree, keep in mind that less is more. If you want to add flowers to your tree, for example, try painting them somewhere on the trunk or near the base of the leaves. If you’re adding fruit, try painting it near the top of the tree where the leaves begin to grow.

Conclusion

Finally, after hours of painting and adding the final details, your tree painting is complete! Now that you’re finished, you can choose where to display your artwork. You could frame it and hang it in your house, give it as a gift to a loved one, or sell it if you’re interested in making a profit. No matter what you choose to do with your painting, remember to be proud of what you achieved and enjoy your new artwork!

You can also watch the process on how to paint tree leaves and bushes here.

Do you want to join and learn from my online course? You can check it now!

Art has been a form of expression for humans for thousands of years. From cave paintings to Renaissance masterpieces, art has evolved and changed with society. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a new tool for creating art. But how does AI art compare to traditional art? In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between AI art and traditional art.

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What is AI Art?

AI art is created using algorithms and machine learning techniques. It involves training a computer to recognize patterns in existing art and then generating new images based on that knowledge. The results can be unpredictable and often surprising, creating a unique form of art that is both innovative and thought-provoking.

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Traditional Art

Traditional art, on the other hand, is created by human hands and requires skill and creativity. It can take many forms, from painting and sculpture to drawing and printmaking. Traditional art often reflects the artist’s personal experiences and emotions, and can be deeply meaningful and impactful.

You can see more traditional art painted by jmlisondra here.

Similarities between AI Art and Traditional Art

Despite their differences, there are several similarities between AI art and traditional art. Both forms of art can evoke strong emotional responses and can be used to communicate complex ideas and emotions. They can also be used to express personal identity and cultural values.

Differences between AI Art and Traditional Art

One of the main differences between AI art and traditional art is the process of creation. While traditional art requires skill, creativity, and personal expression, AI art is created by algorithms and machine learning. This can lead to a lack of personal expression in the final product, which can be a downside for some art lovers.

Another difference is the level of control the artist has over the final product. Traditional artists have complete control over their work, from the initial sketches to the final product. With AI art, the artist creates the algorithm and trains the machine, but ultimately the machine decides the final outcome. This lack of control can be seen as both a positive and a negative, depending on the artist’s perspective.

Conclusion

AI art and traditional art are both valuable forms of expression, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. While AI art is innovative and exciting, traditional art remains a deeply personal and expressive form of art that has been appreciated for centuries. Whether you prefer one over the other or enjoy both, it’s clear that art continues to evolve and change with society, and we can expect to see many more exciting developments in the years to come.

Do you want to take art courses and elevate your art skills? You can check here jmlisondra’s online courses.

What brands of acrylics you are using?  

What are the colors you are using? (Recommended)

Why used 5 limited paint colors?

What are the brushes you are using?

Why put 3 layers of primed gesso on canvas?

How many years did you paint?

What are your advice for the beginners?

Acrylic painting is a versatile and popular medium that allows artists to create a wide range of effects, from thick impasto textures to delicate washes. To achieve the best results in acrylic painting, it’s important to use high-quality materials. Here are the recommended art materials for acrylic painting:

materials1

1. Acrylic Paints

Choose artist-quality acrylic paints for the best color vibrancy and lightfastness. Look for a range of colors including primary colors, earth tones, and specialty shades. Opt for a variety of opacities to expand your range of effects.

materials2

Acrylic Painting Starter Pack!

2. Brushes

Invest in a selection of high-quality acrylic brushes in various shapes and sizes. Round brushes are versatile for details and washes, while flat brushes are ideal for broad strokes and filling in large areas. Synthetic or synthetic-blend brushes are suitable for acrylic paints.

3. Palette

A non-porous palette, such as glass or acrylic, is essential for mixing and blending acrylic paints. This ensures easy cleaning and prevents the paints from drying too quickly.

materials3

4. Canvas or Painting Surface

Choose a stretched canvas or acrylic painting paper as your surface. Ensure the surface is primed for acrylics to adhere properly. Canvas boards provide a sturdy and economical option, while stretched canvases offer a professional and ready-to-hang solution.

5. Palette Knives

Palette knives are useful for applying thick layers of paint, creating textures, and scraping back into the paint to reveal underlying layers. They come in various shapes and sizes for different effects.

6. Mediums

Acrylic mediums, such as gels and pastes, allow artists to alter the texture, sheen, and drying time of acrylic paints. Matte, gloss, and iridescent mediums can add depth and variety to your artworks.

materials4

7. Easel

An adjustable easel provides a comfortable and versatile way to paint. Choose one that suits your workspace and preferred painting style.

8. Sealant

Once your acrylic painting is complete, protect it with a UV-resistant varnish or sealant to prevent fading and yellowing over time.

Want to learn FREE Acrylic Painting with more than 400 Tutorials? Click here!

By using these recommended art materials for acrylic painting, artists can enhance their creative process and produce lasting, high-quality artworks. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced painter, investing in good materials can make a significant difference in the outcome of your acrylic paintings.

Embarking on the world of acrylic painting can be daunting, especially for beginners who are unsure about materials and techniques. Fear not! This guide is curated to provide valuable information and video tutorials to kickstart your acrylic painting journey.

First Step: Selecting Your Materials

1. Acrylic Paints:

Acquiring the right acrylic paints is pivotal. Opt for a limited palette of 5 essential colors – blue, yellow, red, black, and white. This intentional choice empowers beginners to focus on mastering color mixing, a fundamental skill. While I occasionally use black for mixing browns, I recommend exploring the richness of raw umber, burnt umber, and burnt sienna.My go-to brands for beginners include Liquitex Basics, Reeves, and Pebeo Studio acrylics. The opaque colors in these brands provide better pigment quality, ensuring a vibrant and durable finish. If you’re ready to invest, find these acrylic paints conveniently on our Amazon store.

2. Artist Brushes:

The world of brushes is vast, and as a beginner, it’s essential to explore various types. From versatile nylon flats to specialized liner brushes, the options are endless. During my artistic journey, I’ve discovered quality brushes at reasonable prices, particularly favoring affordable yet reliable options for everyday use and splurging a bit on liners for precision.Explore and find brushes that suit your style on our Amazon store.

3. Canvas:

Canvas is the foundation of your artwork. In my early days, when formal canvases were out of reach, I improvised using flour sacks to create my canvas stretcher. For those on a tight budget, consider alternatives such as canvas pads, thick cardboard, or plywood. You can find budget-friendly canvas options on our Amazon store.

DIY | How to Make Your Own Canvas | by JM Lisondra

4. Other Materials:

For a more extensive collection of materials, feel free to explore our dedicated Amazon page.

Second Step: Acrylic Painting Basics

1. Basic Color Mixing:

Delve into the art of color mixing by combining primary colors with neutrals. In this tutorial, I guide you through creating a harmonious palette using blue, yellow, red, black, and white. Refer to the specific color names for accuracy, ensuring your color palette is as vibrant as your imagination.

Basic Color Mixing in Acrylic Using 5 Limited Colors by JM Lisondra

2. How to Blend Acrylics:

Mastering blending techniques can be challenging due to acrylics’ fast-drying nature. Watch the tutorial to grasp essential techniques, including wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, and glazing, adding depth and dimension to your paintings.

3 Ways to Blend Acrylic Paints Tutorial for beginners by JM Lisondra

3. Painting Lights and Shadows:

Understanding the interplay of light and shadow is critical for creating realistic artwork. This tutorial breaks down the process, making it easier for beginners to add a touch of realism to their paintings.

How to Paint Lights and Shadows Using Acrylic by JM Lisondra

4. Color Mixing to Match the Reference:

Elevate your skills by learning to match colors with a reference photo. This tutorial guides you through replicating colors accurately using the 5 limited colors, providing a valuable skill for recreating scenes and images.

Color Mixing to Match the Reference Using Acrylic by JM Lisondra

Conclusion:

Congratulations! Armed with essential materials and newfound techniques, you’re now equipped to embark on your first basic acrylic painting. Dive into Level 1 and Level 2 tutorials on our website, and don’t hesitate to drop your questions or suggestions in the comments. Happy painting!

Happy painting!

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