Acrylic paint is a synthetic, man-made product of modern science. The colored pigments are essentially the same as in those found in oils, however, the vehicle is a transparent acrylic polymer.
Acrylics have become enormously popular since their development in the late 1950’s, possibly because they are the most responsive of any artist’s paint and acrylics are generally less expensive than oils. Acrylics are an extraordinary versatile media. They can be used on almost any surface and will dry to be waterproof in only minutes. Use them to create lushly textured impastos or subtle watercolor-like effects. They clean up easily with water and require no toxic or noxious solvents. Color will not yellow or age.
Available in tubes or jars, acrylic paint come in two grades, artist quality and student grade. Artist quality paint is more highly pigmented then student grade, which uses less expensive pigments and extenders so it will fit the student budget. |