Acrylic vs. Oil Paints: Choosing The Creative Medium
One thing I always get asked when delivering my Mindful Painting Classes is, what is the best medium to create artwork. The most popular options are acrylic, oil and watercolour but in this blog post I’ll only be comparing Acrylic and Oil. Hopefully this helps you to make an informed choice when creating artwork, but also to give you an understanding when purchasing.
Drying Time: One of the most significant differences between acrylic and oil paints is their drying time. Acrylic paints dry quickly, often within minutes to hours, making them ideal for artists who prefer a faster workflow. Oil paints, on the other hand, can take days, weeks, or even months to fully dry. This slow drying time allows for more blending and layering, but it requires patience.
Versatility: Acrylic paints are known for their versatility. They can be used straight from the tube or diluted with water to achieve different effects. Acrylics can mimic the appearance of watercolors when thinned and can also be used for impasto techniques when applied thickly. Oil paints, although more traditional, offer a wide range of textures and can be layered for a depth that is hard to replicate with acrylics.
Colour Vibrancy: Acrylic paints tend to dry with a slightly darker and more matte finish than when wet. Oil paints, on the other hand, maintain their wet color and glossiness when dry. This characteristic can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on the artist's preference. Some artists prefer the predictability of acrylics, while others favor the luminosity of oils.
Toxicity and Cleanup: Acrylic paints are water-based and relatively non-toxic, making them easy to clean up with water and soap. Oil paints, however, are solvent-based and require the use of potentially harmful solvents like turpentine for cleaning. Artists using oils should take precautions in a well-ventilated area.
Longevity: Oil paints have been used for centuries and are known for their longevity. Many old masterpieces were created with oil paints and have stood the test of time. Acrylics, being a relatively newer medium, don't have the same historical track record. However, with proper care and the use of quality materials, acrylic paintings can also last a long time.
In conclusion, the choice between acrylic and oil paints ultimately depends on your artistic preferences and working style. Acrylics offer speed and versatility, making them great for beginners and artists who prefer a quicker creative process. Oil paints provide rich colors and extended blending times, making them perfect for those who appreciate traditional techniques and don't mind the longer drying time. Many artists even find joy in experimenting with both mediums and discovering their unique capabilities. So, the next time you pick up your paintbrush, consider the characteristics of acrylics and oils to bring your artistic vision to life.