Despite facing very difficult life circumstances, she never gave up on her painting. 

This is the newest artwork she has created. It’s from a photo she took at the beachside Cliffs of the Napali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii. Isn’t it beautiful?

There are so many things I liked about this piece. 

First, the unusual and beautiful color combination caught my eye. 

Then, it struck me how she simplified the mountain ridges, which is truly genius! Painting those ridges without losing the sense of form can be quite challenging.

Next, I noticed the reflection of the water. From my personal experience, water reflections are not easy to paint, but Michele did an amazing job!

I also love how the composition is so simple and elegant.

Lastly, I’ve always admired Michele’s unique painting style, and this painting is the epitome of her modern, contemporary, yet realistic personal style. This beauty will soon find a lovely home! Bravo, Michele!

If you have new artworks that you’d love to share, please simply reply to this email or post on our private Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437940910025060

Don’t forget to write a few words about the background of your painting.

I look forward to seeing it!

The post Isn’t this beautiful? member shoutout! appeared first on Ying McLane.

Without a doubt, these are two of the most popular mediums in the art world. 

I have used both in my years of painting, and they have served me well. If you are unsure of which medium would work best for your art, here is some vital information you need to know about oil vs. acrylic paint.

Oil Paintings

Using oil paint as a medium for painting has been done for many centuries. If you’re a fan of some of the world’s most celebrated artworks, such as the Mona Lisa, Starry Night, or Girl with a Pearl Earring, then you know just how vibrant an oil painting can appear.

What is oil paint?

Oil paint is produced by mixing pigment with drying oil (i.e., walnut or linseed oil). It was in Asia where oil paints were first used, where it was used in artwork dating back to as far as the 7th century AD. 

Unlike other mediums, oil paint has a very thick consistency, mainly due to its binding agent. This causes the finished paintings to have not only a glossy finish but also results in a smoother blending of colors. 

Oil paints blend seamlessly, perfect for creating subtle gradients between colors. Because of its consistency and texture, artists can use oil paints to add textures and intricate details to their canvas.

Acrylic Paintings

Compared to oil paint, acrylic is relatively new, only making its way into the art scene sometime in the 20th century. Some famous painters who preferred this medium include Andy Warhol and David Hockney.

(An interesting side story: this famous painting by David Hockney, “Portrait of an Artist (pool with two figures) fetched  $90.3 million in November 2018 to become one of the most expensive works of art by a living artist ever sold at auction!)

Acrylic paint is made from pigments suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion, giving the ability to dry in a fraction of the time it typically takes oil-based paint. It is water-based and, therefore, has a thinner consistency. This leads to a smooth finish for the painting instead of the textured finish that we see in oil paintings. 

Now, let’s take a look at the pros and cons of oil and acrylic paint.

Pros and Cons of Oil and Acrylic Paint

Oil Paint

Pros

• Depth – the depth of color and luminosity you can achieve with oils are incomparable
• Slow drying time – while some consider this a con, you can also use it to your advantage. The drying time can also allow you to rework your piece, blending colors and adding intricate touches to your piece.
• Gradients – smooth transitions can be achieved with oil paints

Cons

• Slow drying time – this can be a disadvantage if you are aiming to quickly complete a piece.
• Yellowing – oil paintings tend to yellow over time when exposed
• Toxic ingredients – some oil paints have toxic ingredients in them, so you need to be cautious when using them
• Solvents – you will need solvents to thin the oil paint or to clean your brushes
• Cleanup time – it takes longer to clean your tools as it requires the use of specially-made products such as artist’s soap or paint thinner to get the job done

Freedom of Speech, by Norman Rockwell.  

(Renowned American artist, humorist, and painter, Norman Rockwell uses oil to paint many of his works. The inspiration for this painting came from the State of the Union address, delivered in January of 1941 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in which he set forth the four basic freedoms that Americans have the right to enjoy. This painting was the first of the series and appeared on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post‘s February 20th issue.)

If you need suggestions, Windsor&Newton is one of my favorite oil paint brands, you can get it here:https://amzn.to/3ZqUlXb

Acrylic Paint

Pros

• Quick drying time – Because they dry much faster than oil paint, you can quickly add layers or details to finish your piece
• Water-soluble – you do not need to use any solvent on acrylic.
• Durable – once acrylic dries, it is water-resistant.
• No yellowing – compared to oil paintings, acrylic paintings are less likely to yellow or fade with age.
• Compatibility – acrylic can be applied to canvas, paper, fabric, or wood.
• Cleanup time – easier to clean up when using acrylic as only water (or soap) is needed

Cons

• Quick drying time – this can be a disadvantage when you want to do a blending technique.
• Color shift – there may be slight changes to the color once an acrylic paint dries.
• Texture – despite its versatility, it might be impossible for acrylic paint to achieve the same rich texture as oils in some techniques

Campbell’s Soup Cans, by Andy Warhol

(Created in 1962, Campbell’s Soup Cans is considered to be one of the most famous acrylic works in history. These were a series of 32 paintings in which Warhol brought each particular flavor of soup to life with its own.)

If you like to try acrylics, this set is a very good value: https://amzn.to/455tf92

When to Use Oil and Acrylic Paint

So you may be asking yourself now, which one should I use between oil vs. acrylic paint? The answer to this would depend on a number of reasons. 

Are you just a beginner? Then, you might find acrylic paints easier to use. 

But if you are the type of artist who takes his or her time when painting, oil paint may be more for you. Oil-based paints also produce tones and colors that cannot be replicated with other paint mediums. Not to mention that they can last for centuries if properly maintained.

What do I use in my painting? 

Recently, I like to use acrylics as an underpainting for my oil painting. 

I first put down the big shapes and basic colors of my painting design with acrylics. Then add a layer of oil paint on top. 

I found that acrylics can help me judge values and colors for the subsequent oil paint, and it dries super fast as well. 

I hope this has shed some light on the effects of acrylics and oils. 

And it doesn’t matter what medium you will use, you will need some basic knowledge of the color wheel. Check out this

post about color theory here: https://yingmclane.com/color-theory-guide-a-comprehensive-guide-for-artists/

What do you think is the best medium for you to use? Leave a comment!

The post Oil or Acrylic Paint?  Guide To Help You Choose Your Painting Medium appeared first on Ying McLane.

I just like to quickly share some news with you:

Three of my painting has been chosen to join two juried exhibitions. 

This oil painting “Eyes of the Storm” was chosen to be in the “Storm Stories” exhibition devoted to Floridian’s spirit of perseverance during Hurricane Ian last year.

This is one of the two paintings chosen to be in the “Growth” exhibition at Southwest International Airport. 

The exhibition will run from the end of September to February 2023. So if you take a fight at the airport, don’t forget to check out my paintings! 

Hope you have a great rest of the week!

Blessings!

Ying

The post My New Exhibition appeared first on Ying McLane.

Oil painting is a timeless and captivating art form that has produced some of the world’s most iconic masterpieces. 

While it may seem intimidating at first, there are fundamental rules that can guide you in your journey as an oil painter. In this blog post, we will explore three essential rules that every aspiring oil painter should keep in mind: from big to small, dark to light, and thin to thick.

Rule 1: From Big to Small

The first rule in oil painting is to start your composition with broad, large shapes and gradually work towards the finer details. This principle helps you establish a strong foundation for your painting and ensures that your artwork remains balanced and coherent.

Why is this important?

• Composition: Beginning with large shapes allows you to establish the overall composition of your painting. This is crucial because a well-composed painting is more visually appealing and conveys your intended message effectively.
• Proportion: Large shapes help you get a sense of proportion right from the start. By accurately capturing the size and placement of major elements, you reduce the risk of later realizing that your subject’s proportions are incorrect.
• Layering: Oil painting often involves layering paint to create depth and texture. Starting with large shapes allows you to layer more easily, as you can add smaller details on top of the established foundation.

Practical tips:

• Use large brushes for your initial sketches and underpainting.
• Focus on capturing the general forms and contours before diving into specifics.

View of Toledo (c. 1600) by El Greco

Rule 2: From Dark to Light

The second rule in oil painting emphasizes the importance of gradually building up the tonal values in your artwork, moving from darker tones to lighter ones. This approach helps you achieve depth, dimension, and a realistic sense of lighting.

Why is this important?

• Depth and Volume: Starting with darker tones allows you to establish the shadows and define the three-dimensional quality of your subject. This gives your painting depth and volume.
• Control: Working from dark to light gives you better control over the values and prevents you from unintentionally making your painting too dark or too light.

Practical tips:

• Begin with identifying the darkest dark colors of a painting, usually the shadow area. 
• Gradually add lighter colors and highlights to create contrast and depth.

The rehearsal of the ballet on stage (1874), Edgar Degas

Rule 3: From Thin to Thick

The final rule in oil painting involves layering your paint from thin to thick. This approach not only affects the texture of your artwork but also ensures the longevity of your masterpiece.

Why is this important?

• Texture: Layering your paint from thin to thick allows you to create texture in your painting. You can achieve a variety of surface effects, from smooth and glossy to impasto (thick, textured layers).
• Drying Time: Thicker layers of paint take longer to dry. By starting with thinner layers and progressing to thicker ones, you can work on your painting over an extended period without worrying about your earlier layers drying too quickly.
• Durability: Thin layers of paint are more flexible and less prone to cracking over time. Thick layers may become brittle and crack as they dry, compromising the integrity of your artwork.  It’s also called: “Fat over lean rule”.

Practical tips:

• Use a solvent or medium to dilute your paint for initial layers.
• As you progress, use thicker paint directly from the tube or mix it with a gel medium for impasto effects.

The grape picker (1875), William-Adolphe BOUGUEREAU 

In the world of oil painting, mastering the art is a journey that requires patience, practice, and adherence to fundamental principles. By following the rules of “from big to small,” “dark to light,” and “thin to thick,” you can create paintings that are not only visually stunning but also structurally sound and enduring. These rules serve as a solid foundation upon which you can build your skills and develop your unique artistic voice. So, grab your brushes and palette, and embark on your oil painting adventure with confidence!

Check out this post about how to use color theory in oil painting:https://yingmclane.com/color-theory-guide-a-comprehensive-guide-for-artists/

Cheering you on!

Ying

The post Three rules in the art of oil painting appeared first on Ying McLane.

Now I am blessed to live in the sunshine state of Florida and I love to open my eyes in the morning and see the blue sky and lush greeneries. It’s hard for anyone to be in a bad mood in a bright and colorful environment!

You see, our world is consisted of colors. Color has a profound impact on our everyday life. 

And artists have the undeniable power to use colors to make an impact. 

That’s why understanding color theory is essential for artists who want to take their art to the next level.

In this blog post, we will explore the fundamentals of color theory and use plenty of examples of how artists can use it to enhance their paintings.

The Basics of Color Theory

Color theory is the study of how colors interact with each other and how they can be combined to create visually appealing compositions. It is a fundamental concept in art and design, and it plays a crucial role in various art forms.

The Color Wheel: 

It’s a fundamental tool in color theory and has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Sir Isaac Newton, the renowned physicist, is often credited with the invention of the first color wheel. He arranged colors in a circular chart to demonstrate how white light could be split into its component colors using a prism. This laid the foundation for understanding color relationships.

The color wheel is a circular chart that organizes colors in a systematic way.

It consists of primary colors (red, blue, and yellow), 

Secondary colors(green, orange, and purple), 

Tertiary colors(colors created by mixing a primary and a secondary color). 

The color wheel helps artists understand how colors relate to each other and how they can be harmoniously combined.

There are three aspects of color:

Hue: means the specific color itself. Like red, orange red, etc. 

Value: the lightness or darkness or a color

Chroma: also called saturation, intensity. Means the brightness or dullness of a color. 

Color Relationships: 

Artists often use color relationships to create harmony or contrast in their paintings. 

Some common color relationships include:

complementary colors: 

The opposite colors on the color wheel.

Van Gogh liked to use bold, complementary colors in many of his paintings. In this painting, he used complementary blue and oranges, yellow and purple to express the warmth of the cafe in contrast with the starry night he was so fond of painting.

Cafe Terrace at night, Van Gogh

Analogous colors: 

Colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel.

Picasso’s famous painting: “The Old Guitarist”, showcased his love for dark, moody analogous colors during his Blue period. 

The Old Guitarist, Picasso

Monochromic colors:

A color scheme using only one color with different variations in value, hue, or chroma. 

American landscape painter George Inness used the family of green colors in different variations to describe this serene and mystic scenery. 

Pool in the Woods, 1892, George Inness

How to Use Color Theory in Paintings

Now that we’ve covered the basics of color theory and the history of the color wheel, let’s explore how artists can apply these concepts to their paintings:

1: Setting the Mood: Different colors evoke different emotions. Understanding the historical associations of colors can be particularly valuable. 

For example, red has long symbolized passion and love, while blue has been associated with calm and tranquility. 

Artists can use color to set the mood of their artwork and convey the intended emotions to the viewer.  

Being one of the most famous Impressionist painters, Monet is a master in using colors creating dreamy, peaceful art.

Impression Sunrise by Claude Monet

2: Creating Focal Points: The historical use of complementary colors to create contrast and draw attention to specific areas of a painting is a time-tested technique. It helps create focal points that guide the viewer’s eye and emphasize important elements within the composition.

Sargent used red and skillfully placed the focal points of this painting.

A dinner table at night by John Singer Sargent

3: Achieving Balance: Historical artists like Johannes Itten and Josef Albers, who were influential in the field of color theory, emphasized the importance of balance and harmony in artworks. 

 Josef Albers’s famous modern art series: Homage to the Square used color relationships like complementary or analogous colors, and achieved a sense of balance that makes the artwork visually pleasing and engaging to the viewer.

Homage to the Square, Josef Albers

4: Adding Depth and Dimension: Manipulating the values of colors allows artists to create depth and dimension in their paintings. 

The historical use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark, is an example of how artists have harnessed the power of value to create three-dimensional effects.   

When it comes to the chiaroscuro technique, Italian painter Caravaggio is the first to come to mind:

Martha and Mary Magdalene 1598 – by Caravaggio

5: Conveying Symbolism: Colors are often associated with symbolism. For example, red may symbolize passion and love, while green may symbolize growth and renewal. Artists can use these color-symbolism associations to convey deeper meanings and messages in their artwork.

Take another painting by Caravaggio, the red in the boy’s cloth symbolizes the energy and vibrancy of youth.

The Musicians or Concert of Youths  (c. 1595) by Caravaggio

Limitations of the Color Wheel

First,  the color wheel does not include the impact of white and black.

When you add white to a color, you will make it lighter hence increasing the value of that color.

When you add black to a color, you will make it darker hence decreasing the value of a color. 

Both white and black will decrease the chroma/saturation of a color.

Second, In reality, there are few colors you can’t mix to exactly match the color wheel. 

Artist tip: For example, purple is a hard color to mix. Our artist member Linda pointed out to me that  Quinacridone magenta and ultramarine make an absolutely gorgeous purple, Thank you Linda!

To learn the basics of choosing a color palette for painting, check out this guide: https://yingmclane.com/how-artist-choose-palette/

Master color schemes can take your art to the next level, so don’t be afraid to experiment with color and discover the endless possibilities it offers in the world of art. 

Hope this post is helpful. 

Free to share and comment!

The post Color Theory Guide: A Comprehensive Guide for Artists appeared first on Ying McLane.

I paint a lot and I have many paintbrushes that have been with me for over 5 years! 

So I will show you how to properly clean and preserve your brushes as well as an introduction to paintbrushes. 

Here is a simple guide to different paintbrushes:

The Different Brush Shapes

The world of artist’s brushes is incredibly diverse. Brushes come in a multitude of shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its unique characteristics and applications. Here are just a few examples of the most commonly used artist paintbrushes:

• Round Brushes: These versatile brushes are a staple for artists. Their fine point is perfect for precise details, making them essential for intricate work like portraiture.
  
  
  
• Bright Brushes: Known for their broad, flat bristles, these brushes are great for creating sharp edges and covering large areas with bold strokes.
  
  
  
• Fan Brushes: I love fan brushes!  I use two types of pan brushes to achieve different effects: the ones that are flat and stiff could be used to quickly paint tree leaves or add small water drops in seascapes.   The second staple of fan brushes I use are soft and fluffy, perfect for blending skin tones and all other areas that need to be smooth and soft looking.
  
  
  
• Filbert Brushes: A hybrid of round and flat brushes, filbert brushes have a rounded tip that allows for both detailed work and broader strokes. It probably is the most versatile of all brushes.
  
  
  

The Brush Materials 

• Synthetic vs. Natural Bristles: Brushes can have either synthetic or natural bristles. Natural bristles, often made from animal hair, are prized for their ability to hold and release paint smoothly. Synthetic brushes are often cheaper, durable, and can be a cruelty-free alternative.

The Brush Sizes 

The size of a brush is determined by its width, with smaller brushes being ideal for intricate work and larger brushes for covering more substantial areas.

The size 0 is the smallest, great for painting hairs and the smallest details. 

The bigger the number is, the bigger the size of the brushes will be. 

I like to use a big Bright shaped brush to lay down the background and the first layer of thin and flat paint. Then progress to smaller brushes as I build up my painting.

Why You Should Avoid Mix Brushes Between Different Mediums

.Here are some key reasons why artists typically do not mix brushes between different mediums:

• Contamination: One of the primary concerns is contamination of the brush and the resulting impact on the artwork. Residue from one medium can remain on the brush even after cleaning, leading to unintended color mixing or undesirable effects when switching to another medium.
• Medium Compatibility: Brushes are designed and manufactured to work optimally with specific mediums. Watercolor brushes, for example, are typically made with soft bristles that hold water and pigment, making them unsuitable for use with thicker mediums like oil paint, which requires stiffer bristles to handle the consistency of oil paint.
• Medium-Specific Effects: Different mediums require brushes with specific characteristics to achieve desired effects. For instance, acrylic brushes often have synthetic bristles designed to withstand the harsh chemicals and fast-drying nature of acrylic paints, while oil brushes have natural bristles that work well with the slow-drying and viscous properties of oil paints
• Longevity and Durability: The compatibility between brushes and mediums also affects the longevity and durability of the brushes. Using a brush with a medium it’s not designed for can lead to premature wear and damage to the brush. And you will not want to ruin your favorite brush because of this reason!
• Artistic Precision: Artists often develop a familiarity and preference for specific brushes for their chosen medium and style. Mixing brushes between different mediums can disrupt this familiarity and make it challenging to achieve the level of precision and control they desire.

My Favorite Paintbrush Brand:

My favorite brands are Princeton, Silver Brush, and Rosemary Co. 

How to Properly Clean Paintbrushes

Properly cleaning brushes is essential to maintain their longevity and ensure they perform well in your artistic endeavors. Here’s a general guide on how to clean brushes effectively:

Materials Needed:

• Water: For water-based paints like watercolors or acrylics, you’ll need water for cleaning.
• Solvent or Paint Thinner: If you use oil-based paints like oil paints or alkyds, you’ll need an appropriate solvent or paint thinner. Common options include mineral spirits or odorless turpentine.
• Container for Cleaning: Use a container, such as a jar or a cleaning basin, to hold the cleaning solution.   I use a stainless steel cleaner with tight seals. There is also a removable trainer cup inside it so the residue from paints will filter to the bottom.  
  
  
  
• Paper Towels or Rags: These are handy for wiping excess paint and solvent from the brushes.

Cleaning Process:

• Remove Excess Paint: Before cleaning, gently wipe excess paint off the brush using a paper towel or rag. This step minimizes the amount of paint that needs to be cleaned in the solvent or water.
• For Water-Based Paints(Acrylics/Watercolors):
  • a. Rinse the brush under running water to remove any remaining paint.
  • b. Swirl the brush in a container of clean water, gently agitating the bristles to release the paint.
  • c. Repeat the process until the water runs clear and there’s no more paint coming off the brush.
  • d. Gently reshape the brush to its original form.
• For Oil-Based Paint
  • Although Oil paints need more elbow grease and steps to clean than acrylics, but with proper care, your brushes will last a very long time! 
  • First, swirl the brush in a container with the appropriate solvent or paint thinner. Use enough solvent to fully immerse the bristles without submerging the ferrule (the metal part that connects the bristles to the handle).
  • Second, Remove the brush and wipe it on a paper towel or rag to remove loosened paint.
  • Repeat the process with clean solvent until the brush is clean.
    
    
    Reshape and Dry: After cleaning, gently reshape the brush to its original form. Lay it flat to dry, ensuring the bristles are not bent or misshapen. Avoid leaving brushes standing in water or solvent, as this can damage the bristles and the handle.

Additional Tips:

• Avoid using excessive force or harsh chemicals to clean brushes, as this can damage the bristles over time.
• Cleaning your brushes immediately after use can make the process easier and more effective. A couple of times I forgot to clean some of my favorite brushes and left them in my studio overnight, ended up ruining them because they were made of delicate natural animal hair.  I hope you don’t repeat my mistakes.
• If you have neglected brushes with dried paint, you may need to soak them in the appropriate solvent or use a brush restorer product to revive them. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for these products.

Proper brush care and cleaning are essential habits for any artist. By following these steps, you can help ensure your brushes remain in good condition for many years to come!

Let me know if this post is helpful and happy painting!

The post All about paintbrushes and the best way to clean brushes appeared first on Ying McLane.

While I was making my Three Weekend Portrait Painting masterclass, I realized that many people have a bit of a hard time transitioning from watercolors or acrylics to oil painting because no one has ever explained to them the basics of oil painting.  

So I am going to make a series of posts about this topic. 

And even if you are an experienced oil painter, you may find something helpful. So here we go.

First, we will start with Canvas:

Why choose canvas? 

Reason number one: Oil paints is a dense and heavy material so cotton and linen are ideal surfaces to hold an oil painting. 

Reason number 2: Canvas is a much lighter material than wood board. It’s easy to transport. And has the same longevity. 

How do artists choose canvas? 

The answer is, depends on your budget and your experience.

The two canvas materials are cotton and Linen. 

I love the cotton canvas. It’s affordable and easy to paint on. Linen canvas is smoother than cotton but it’s also more expensive, great for painting detailed portraits. 

You can buy canvas rolls and stretch bars to stretch your canvas. But I advise you to buy a pre-stretched canvas to save time. And they are not much more expensive.  

A good canvas will be tightly wrapped around the bars.  Beware a loosely stretched canvas.

A good tip: If you have a loose canvas, you can spray the back with a water mist bottle and let it dry in the sun. 

Most store-bought canvas already has been primed. But I suggest you do your priming anyway. I have made a post about why you need to do so and how to prime your canvas in the last week’s blog. You can access it here: https://yingmclane.com/the-best-way-to-gesso-the-canvas/

The frame of the canvas is important, especially for larger pieces. If your canvas is 24”x36” or larger, you will want to get a canvas with a horizontal bar going across the middle of the canvas. Better yet, a crossbar in the back as support. 

If you are a beginner who just learning to paint with oil, I suggest you get canvas boards, canvas pads, or stretched canvas in small sizes and sold in bulks in art stores.  

Because you will need to do a lot of practice painting and those are very reasonably priced choices.

Hope this post is helpful. Let me know if you have any questions! 

The post How to choose the right canvas for oil painting? appeared first on Ying McLane.

What is gesso?

Gesso is a paint-like substance that is brushed on a canvas or substrate to prepare it for painting. Its purpose is to protect the canvas from paint and provide a smooth painting surface.

Originally, gesso was a mixture of animal glue and gypsum(usually rabbit skin glue) applied to a wooden panel so a painting wouldn’t wash away. In the 14th century, gesso started as a primer for wood panels. This gesso primer allowed tempera paintings to stick to the painting support and last longer because the paint would sink in more evenly instead of unevenly in the wood grain.

But we don’t need to have an art history lesson here. Let’s talk about modern gesso—the gesso most artist use today. 

Created in 1955, modern acrylic gesso acts as a canvas sealant, a primer, and a painting ground and comprises an acrylic polymer medium (glue) and calcium carbonate (chalk). It’s similar to traditional gesso but more versatile and easy to use.

Why do you need to use gesso? 

You always need to gesso your canvas if you want to paint with oil because the oil will seep through the canvas over time and break down the fibers if you don’t have gesso to protect the surface. 

Theoretically, you don’t need gesso if you paint with acrylics, because acrylic paint is made of plastic substance and will not cause harm to the canvas. 

But in my personal opinion, it doesn’t matter if you paint with oil or acrylic, it’s best you gesso your canvas to prevent the paint sink into the canvas. Gesso will also make the surface smoother to paint. And because gesso contains chalk, the paint will stick to the surface better. 

There are two different grades of gesso: Artist-grade and Student grade. The difference between the two amounts to the different ratios of pigment vs. filler. The Student’s grade is cheaper because it contains more filler than the Artist’s grade. The artist’s grade has more pigment than the Student’s grade, making it thicker and more opaque. These differences are reflected in the price, and also in the quality. 

My favorite gesso brand is this one: https://amzn.to/459lBuY ( I thank you in advance if you choose to use these links in my blog to shop art supplies. This will not add any extra cost to you, and it will support this blog over time). 

I used to directly put down the gesso on the canvas and use a big brush to spread it. But somehow it will always leave hard ridges that I can’t sand off.

Now I found the best way to gesso a canvas:

Mix roughly 2/3 gesso and 1/3 water and gesso in 2 to 3 layers. The water makes gesso spread thinner and smoother.

Mix well and test on your canvas. Some gesso are thicker so you may need more water. You want a consistency that is easily spreadable but not running down to the sides. 

How do you gesso a canvas?

There are many ways to gesso your canvas, as long as you leave the layers even and smooth.

I like to start from the middle of the canvas if the canvas is a smaller size. 

First I pour some gesso and water mixture in the middle, then I spread it outwards with my brush. After that, I use strokes from left to right, from top to bottom to spread the gesso to the entire canvas, and repeat several times. 

For a bigger canvas, I will drop the same amount of gesso evenly throughout the canvas, then spread them from left to right. 

After I’ve done this, I then examine the canvas closely by tilting it in different directions, so I can see if there are any big paint ridges were missed. I usually give my final layer of gesso some sanding using sandpaper. 

Gesso is usually white. But you can also find grey, or black gesso in the store. 

If you already know what your painting background will be, you can also add acrylic colors to the gesso, to make a colored gesso ground. 

This is especially useful for paintings that have big areas of sky as background, or abstract painting. 

What do you use to spread gesso? 

I have followed advice from different people and spent a good amount of money on brushes, in the hope to find the best one for spreading gesso on canvas easily and smoothly. 

But I found the best tool to use is the cheapest foam paint brush like these: https://amzn.to/45bQZJl

How many layers of gesso do you need?

Even with pre-stretched stored-bought canvas, which usually already has a layer of gesso, I advise you still do at least two layers of gesso and water mixture. Because the store-brought canvas usually is gessoed by machine. The gesso on them is very thin. It will not be enough to allow your brushes to glide smoothly. I found two to three layers of gesso are the best. You can sand in between layers as well, to make it even more smooth.

You must make sure each layer is totally dry before you apply the next layer or start sanding.

You don’t need too many layers or sand down too much either. Or your painting surface will become too heavy and slippery to paint. Trust me, I have made all of those mistakes before so now you don’t have to.

Important Tip:

Remember to wipe off any drips of the gesso on the edge of the canvas. Or you will have hard ridges in those areas, and they are almost impossible to get rid of. 

Let me know if this post is helpful! 

The post The Best Way to Gesso the Canvas appeared first on Ying McLane.

1. Solid Color Extension

Pros: Adding a solid color extension to the canvas edges complements the main artwork and provides a clean and polished look. This method allows artists to choose a color that complements the painting, adding depth and coherence to the overall presentation.

Cons: While it offers a neater finish, this method still requires the use of frames if desired. Choosing the right color for the extension can be challenging, as it must harmonize with the painting without overpowering it.

2. Mirrored Edge

Pros: The mirrored edge technique involves replicating a part of the painting’s outer edge and extending it to the sides. This creates an illusion of continuity and a 3D effect, giving the artwork a more substantial presence. Mirrored edges work well with a wide range of paintings, including landscapes and abstract art.

Cons: Achieving a seamless mirror effect can be tricky and time-consuming, especially for intricate and detailed artworks. It requires careful planning and precision during the painting process.

3. Natural/Unfinished Edge

Pros: Embracing the natural or unfinished edge of the canvas can create an organic and raw aesthetic. This technique works well with certain artistic styles, such as impressionism or abstract expressionism. It saves time and effort, as it requires no additional painting on the edges.

Cons: Leaving the edges unfinished may appear unprofessional and less refined. It may not be suitable for all types of paintings, particularly those with a realistic or polished style.

4. Gallery Wrap

Pros: Gallery wrap usually involves stretching the canvas around the wooden frame so that the image continues around the edges. It provides a modern and contemporary look, eliminating the need for a frame. The artwork can be displayed without distraction, focusing solely on the painted image. The artist can also choose to leave the side unpainted or paint with a solid color.

Gallery-wrapped paintings are easy to hang, saving time and money on framing costs.

Cons: Gallery-wrapped canvas cost more than stretched canvas. So it may not be the best option for new artists.

5: Frame the canvas

Pros: If you don’t like any of these options, you can always frame the canvas. You can go to a professional framing service or buy your re-made frame. But sometimes you still need to paint the edges of the canvas, especially with a floater frame. Because most of them have a small gap between the canvas and the frame, you need to pay attention to whether you need to paint the edges or not.

Cons: It’s obviously more costly.

A tip to remember:

If you plan on exhibiting your new series of works at an art gallery, you should use the same frame for all of the paintings. Or leave the edges on all of your paintings the same look. This way you will achieve a more consistent and professional impression to the viewers.

Lately, gallery-wrapped canvas has been my favorite. Because it looks modern and clean, and it does not need a frame.

What’s your favorite way to finish your canvas edges? Please let me know and hope this article is helpful!

Cheering you on!
Ying

The post 5 Ways to Paint Canvas Edges: Pros and Cons appeared first on Ying McLane.

Well, my friends, here’s the thing: before you even pick up that brush or put pencil to paper, you’d better sort out your mindset first. If you don’t, you’ll find yourself battling fear, self-doubt, or worse, losing your unique artistic voice.

To take your artistic journey seriously, you need a positive and resilient mindset. It’s like a superpower that helps you tackle challenges, setbacks, and criticism head-on, giving you the strength to keep going and keep getting better at your craft. So, let’s get that mindset right and unleash our full creative potential.

1. Define Your Artistic Vision:

• What is your ultimate artistic goal? Describe your vision as vividly as possible. (e.g., becoming a master portrait painter, so you can paint your loved ones and your painting will become precious family heirlooms. )

2. Acknowledge Your Unique Voice:

• What makes your art distinct and authentic? List the characteristics that set your work apart from others. If you don’t have a unique style yet, no worries, just keep painting and writing. Your voice will come.

3. Define what’s your 20% consist of:

• There is a rule for success: 80% of your progress is made by 20% of your activities. Spend three hours trying to decide the best fonts to use for your artist’s website does not belong to that 20% activity. But planning and researching for your next painting collection is. What’s that 20% activity in your creative process and what’s not?

4. Embrace Creative Vulnerability:

• In what ways do you fear expressing yourself through art? Write down these fears and consider how overcoming them can lead to growth. Because writing is a powerful way to combat fear. Usually, when you write things down, you will find they are not so scary after all. So start writing.

5. Set Realistic Artistic Goals:

• Outline specific, achievable short-term and long-term artistic goals. Ensure they are challenging yet feasible. I like to break up my one-year goal into four three-month goals, I found it is clearer and easier to achieve. What’s your three-month goal?

6. Cultivate Resilience:

• How do you handle setbacks and criticism? Reflect on ways to build resilience and maintain a positive attitude despite challenges. (e.g.remind yourself of Henry Ford’s famous quote: “The short successes that can be gained in a brief time and without difficulty, are not worth much.”)

7. Practice Regularly:

• How often do you engage in artistic practice? Create a weekly schedule that includes dedicated time for artistic pursuits. Even a daily ten-minute pencil sketch can help you improve your artistic ability in the long run. So what’s your plan?

8. Explore and Experiment:

• Step out of your comfort zone and try new art forms, techniques, or styles. Embrace the process of experimentation and learning. Have you tried mixed media? Gouache? Acrylic ink? Experimenting is creating and it’s fun!!

9. Find Inspiration:

• Identify sources of inspiration that fuel your creativity. These could be the works of other artists, nature, books, music, or personal experiences. Do you have a routine to nurture your creativity? Have you had an artist’s date with yourself lately?

10. Celebrate Achievements:

• Acknowledge and celebrate every artistic milestone, big or small. Rewarding yourself will motivate you to keep going. What’s your small win this week?

11. Seek Constructive Feedback:

• Who can provide you with honest and constructive feedback on your work? Reach out to mentors, peers, or art communities for guidance. Join my private Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1437940910025060

12. Examine your negative thoughts

• What negative thoughts or self-doubts hinder your artistic growth? Challenge these thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations.

13. Balance Creativity and Critique:

• Find a healthy balance between creating freely and self-critiquing. Avoid over-analyzing during the creative process. How often do you feel you have no inspiration? This could be a sign that you have been overanalyzing.

14. Connect with Your Audience:

• How can you connect your art with your intended audience? Consider ways to communicate your message effectively. Do you have a supportive local or online artist group?

15. Gratitude and Mindfulness:

• Practice gratitude for your artistic abilities and the opportunity to create. Stay present and mindful during the creative process. What are you grateful for today?

Remember, developing an artist mindset is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Be patient with yourself and keep nurturing your creativity with passion and dedication. Happy creating!

We want solutions, but what we really need are attitudes.
You don’t need abs, but rather an attitude of training. You don’t need the answer, but rather an attitude of curiosity. You don’t need an easier life, but rather an attitude of perseverance.

Attitude precedes outcome

James Clear

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