Acrylic-Based PigmentsIntroductionAcrylic-basedpigmentsAcrylic paintAcrylic paintextendersAcrylic paintimpastoSome artists consider acrylic-based pigment a water-based medium becausewhen wet, the pigment is water soluble. But, acrylic-based pigments are nota pure water medium. Acrylic-based pigments have synthetic properties thatalter their consistency, permanency, and application. For extended study ofacrylic-based painting, study contemporary works from artists such asGeorgia O’Keefe and Helen Frankenthaler.Acrylic-based pigments are pigments mixed with a synthetic binder of acrylicresin emulsified in water or turpentine. Acrylic resin is a plasticizer thatgives acrylic paints elasticity and endurance. Acrylic-based pigments havegained tremendous popularity since their introduction in the 1960s because oftheir ease in handling, clean up, color intensity and choice. You will mostoften encounter acrylic paint with a water base.Acrylic paints are pigment and powdered acrylic resin emulsified in water.Acrylic paint is water soluble when wet and waterproof when dry. Acrylicsdry quickly. Acrylic color is brilliant with strong covering power; however,it sometimes stains. You can use additives to extend the pigment, changeconsistency, and increase drying time.An extender for acrylic paint is called an acrylic gel medium or acrylicpolymer emulsion. The extender has a milky white appearance thatdisappears when dry leaving a gloss or matt finish to the pigment. Combinggloss and matt extenders yields a semigloss finish. You can add water toacrylic paint even after adding an extender. Expect the drying time for thepaint to increase.An impasto is a thick mass of acrylic modeling paste, marble dust, and filler.By mixing impasto with acrylic paint, you can add surface texture to yourpainting. Impasto has the consistency of paste or dough and drys slowly.The outside skin dries faster than the inside creating large cracks that mayrequire filling. When painting with impasto, use a substrate with a rigidbacking.Continued on next page1-53
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