Monday, April 15, 2024 - Issue 16

April 15, 2024 | 5:30 PM Central

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the various surfaces that acrylic paints can be used on, highlighting the unique characteristics and benefits of each. From traditional canvases to unconventional materials like metal and glass, this list offers a broad view, perfect for both beginners and seasoned artists exploring different substrates for their acrylic paintings.

Acrylic Painting Surfaces

Whether you're experimenting with new textures or aiming for specific visual effects, this guide will help you navigate the myriad of choices and their potential impacts on your artwork.

Carolina Beach Path

This vibrant coastal scene is the perfect next adventure for our Red and Purple Members! Imagine capturing the essence of a sunny beach day, with wildflowers dancing in the breeze and the ocean's distant roar. Your brushes are ready to blend the lively blues and greens as you bring this tranquil path to life. Join us to master the play of light and shade, and create your own serene beach escape in acrylics. Get ready to be inspired by the beauty of the coast! 

Our plan is to create a book and videos where the viewer will discover a curated collection of 50 to 75 unique surfaces, ranging from the rustic allure of weathered bricks and iron gates to the soft, intricate folds of fabric. Each chapter is devoted to a specific texture, offering you a detailed guide on how to capture its essence in an impressionistic style. From mastering the fine details that bring a surface to life to exploring the bold strokes that evoke emotion and movement, our lessons are crafted to enhance both your technical skills and creative vision.

We understand that each artist’s interests and needs are unique, which is why we’ve provided a way for you to share your learning experience. Through a special form on our website, you can select up to 15 surfaces that intrigue you the most. This feedback will guide our video series, ensuring that we focus on the techniques and subjects that will benefit you the most.

Are you ready to dive into a world of boundless creativity and breathtaking landscapes? We have something truly exciting in store for you – our very own Landscape Reference Challenge is underway! This is your chance to explore, experiment, and express your unique vision through the versatile medium of acrylic paints.

Your task is to find a landscape photograph that you feel will be a good reference for a painting. We have assembled a list of websites that offer free images that you are encouraged to explore, so click the image above or the button below. You do not have to use Unsplash if you don't want to. We have plenty of others from which to select.

This Challenge does not include edits. You should only post a photo from one of the free sites that you think would make a good painting. The photo will be discussed in the Zoom call.

We are planning a Zoom call to discuss the submitted images on Saturday, April 20, at 2:00 p.m. Central Time.

Zoom Call REPLAY Time!

If you would like to support us either by donations or purchasing items on Amazon, please use the links below. Every donation helps us support our mission of teaching the world to paint with acrylics.