Some people seem shocked to hear that I prefer acrylics to oils. Some of my favourite paintings from art history were painted in oils and there are many painting masters today still using oils.
The humble painting knife has experienced a resurgence in popularity in the past year or two. Paintings completed with a painting knife have a wonderful texture and energy that many collectors find irresistible.
The debate about whether brush quality makes a difference to your painting continues. Something along the lines of the amateur blames his tools if the work is not good enough.
This may seem self-evident, but many beginners try to avoid this learning curve. Often tube colours are used without adjusting them very much. This can lead to unfortunate colour choices in your paintings.
As an artist using acrylics, you know how versatile the medium is. The quick drying nature of acrylics. The ability to paint on many surfaces. No cracking. Vibrant colour. But acrylics have their little quirks too.
I came across Janet’s colourful art on Instagram and was instantly fascinated. So much of what we see seems to be dark and dreary and here is an artist who absolutely embraces colour and life it seems.
I have good news. It seems the number of beginner artists is increasing. This despite the digital age we live in is something of an achievement.
I was lucky enough to connect with Mariaan Kotze – an artist who really inspired me with the diversity in her artforms and the bold imagery she combines to portray her vision.
