Essential Art Tools for Creating My Paintings
When it comes to creating abstract paintings, I believe in keeping things simple and focused on the essentials.
As an artist, I’ve learned that having an abundance of art tools can sometimes become a distraction, leading to clutter and overwhelming choices.
Instead, I prefer to curate a limited selection of my preferred art tools, allowing me to concentrate on the creative process without unnecessary complications.
While some artists may revel in the vast array of art tools at their disposal, I find solace in minimalism.
I’ve witnessed fellow artists surrounded by an extensive collection of materials, and while there’s nothing inherently wrong with that approach, it’s simply not my personal preference.
For me, tools are just tools – they are means to an end, not the end itself.
My commitment to a minimalist approach doesn’t stem from any lack of appreciation for the countless art tools available on the market. Rather, it’s a conscious decision to streamline my creative process and avoid the potential clutter that can arise from accumulating too many materials.
By focusing on a carefully curated set of art tools, I can devote my energy and attention to the art itself, allowing my creativity to flow unhindered.
In this blog post, I’ll share the art tools that have become essential companions in my artistic journey, the tools that have enabled me to create the abstract paintings I envision.
Note:
While I may mention a few brand names along the way, please keep in mind that these are not recommendations per se. Every artist must discover the materials that resonate with their unique style and preferences through personal experimentation and exploration.
It’s also important to note that I am not affiliated with or sponsored by any of these paint brand companies.
The brands and products discussed are simply my personal preferences based on my experiences as an artist.
Art Surfaces
As an artist, the surface upon which I create my abstract paintings is one of the most crucial art tools in my arsenal.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with various surfaces, each offering its unique characteristics and influencing the final outcome of my work.
In this section, I’ll delve into the three primary surfaces that have become integral to my artistic practice.
Cotton Canvas
When it comes to art tools for creating paintings, cotton canvas is undoubtedly a beloved choice. Specifically, I favour the use of cotton duck canvas, a term that derives from the Dutch word “doek,” meaning cloth.
These canvases are not only easy to prepare but also work remarkably well with both oil and acrylic paints.
For larger abstract paintings, measuring approximately 1.6 x 2.1 meters (5 x 7 feet), I prefer to work with unstretched canvases.
The decision to leave these expansive canvases unstretched is primarily driven by the limited storage space in my studio.
However, when it comes to smaller canvases, such as those measuring 80 x 100 cm (31.5 x 39 inches) or less, I typically opt for stretched canvases.
In my opinion, larger canvases possess a distinct and powerful impact, both in the creative process and when viewing the finished piece.
There’s something about the grandeur of a large canvas that allows for a more immersive and impactful experience, but that’s just my personal perspective.
(For additional details, check out my blog about Painting on Canvas – Tips and Techniques.)
Wood Panels
Complementing my affinity for canvas, wood panels have also become an indispensable art tool in my abstract painting practice.
Among the various wood surfaces, Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF) has been a particular favourite for many years. Its sturdy nature and smooth surface provide an excellent foundation for my artistic expression.
(Check out my blog about Acrylic and Oil Painting on MDF Boards: Tips and Techniques.)
Acid-free Paper
Considering the limited storage space in my studio, I’ve also embraced the use of acid-free card sheets as a surface for creating abstract paintings.
These thick cards, typically 300 gsm (grams per square metre), offer a beautiful canvas for my artistic explorations.
I primarily work with two sizes: 60 x 84 cm (24 x 33 inches) and 42 x 60 cm (16.5 x 24 inches).
Conscious of my environmental impact, I make a concerted effort to purchase FSC-certified paper, ensuring that my art tools align with sustainable practices and contribute to the preservation of our natural resources.
(Have a look at this blog post which I wrote about The Joy of Creating Abstract Art on Paper).
Paint Mediums
When it comes to the art tools that bring my abstract visions to life, paint mediums play a pivotal role.
In my artistic practice, I primarily work with two distinct mediums: oil paints and acrylic paints. Each medium possesses its own unique characteristics, offering a diverse range of creative possibilities and allowing me to explore different techniques and expressions.
Oil Paints
Oil paints have been a longstanding companion in my artistic journey and they hold a special place among my essential art tools.
These paints are renowned for their rich, buttery consistency and the depth of colour they can achieve. Over the years, I’ve transitioned from using lower-quality oil paints during my early learning phase to investing in higher-quality options as my skills and understanding of the medium evolved.
Working with premium oil paints has been a revelatory experience, as it has allowed me to truly appreciate the nuances and special characteristics that each brand and formulation offers.
While there are numerous reputable brands available, I’ve developed a particular fondness for a select few, each with its own unique properties and qualities.
I have a few preferred brands that have become essential art tools in my creative practice. While there are numerous options available, these brands have consistently delivered exceptional quality and performance, enabling me to bring my abstract visions to life with vibrant, rich colours and buttery textures.
(Have a look at some of my Abstract Oil Paintings and let me know your thoughts).
- Winsor & Newton
One of my go-to brands is Winsor & Newton’s Artists’ Oil Colour range. These paints are meticulously crafted using high-quality pigments, resulting in a buttery consistency that allows for smooth application and brushwork.
Additionally, Winsor & Newton provide valuable information on lightfastness for each colour, ensuring that my paintings maintain their vibrancy over time. Depending on the specific colour, these paints are made with either linseed oil or safflower oil, further contributing to their unique characteristics.
- Gamblin
Another brand that has earned a place among my essential art tools is Gamblin’s Artist Grade Oil Colours. These paints boast a high pigment concentration, resulting in rich, vibrant hues that truly capture the essence of my abstract compositions.
The buttery feel of these paints allows for effortless brushwork, as they flow smoothly across the canvas. Gamblin’s use of high-quality pigments and refined linseed oil binder ensures stability and resistance to yellowing, making these paints a reliable choice for my long-term artistic endeavours.
- Sennelier
Sennelier’s oil paints have also become a staple in my studio. Gathered from the finest natural and inorganic pigments around the world, these paints offer a dense yet firm buttery texture, originally developed for impressionist painters.
Combined with archival safflower oil, Sennelier’s paints yield high tinting strength and a rich satin finish, allowing me to achieve depth and dimension in my abstract works.
- Michael Harding
Finally, I cannot overlook the exceptional quality of Michael Harding’s oil paints. These paints provide brilliant, vibrant and true colours, thanks to the finest pigments used in their formulation.
The buttery texture of these paints is easy to manipulate, making them a joy to work with. Most colours are made with linseed oil, except for specific shades like Titanium White (safflower oil) and Cremnitz White (walnut oil), offering a diverse range of options to suit my artistic needs.
While these are my preferred brands, it’s important to note that every artist has their own unique preferences and techniques.
The choice of oil paints is a deeply personal one and what works for me may not resonate with others.
Ultimately, the key is to experiment and find the brands and formulations that align with your artistic vision and allow your creativity to flourish.
(Oil paints are fantastic for creating Art With Layers).
(I thoroughly enjoy using oil paints to create abstract paintings. Here’s another article about The Joy of Abstract Oil Paintings and Why I Enjoy Creating Them).
Acrylic Paints
Acrylic paints, on the other hand, offer a different set of advantages and creative possibilities. One of the most notable distinctions between acrylics and oils is their drying time.
Acrylics dry significantly faster than their oil-based counterparts, requiring a different skill set and approach when working with them.
The versatility of acrylic paints is truly remarkable, making them invaluable art tools in my practice. From their ability to achieve vibrant, bold colours to their compatibility with various techniques and applications, acrylics have proven to be an indispensable part of my artistic arsenal.
Over the years, I’ve come to rely on several trusted brands of acrylic paints, each offering its own unique characteristics and catering to different styles and preferences.
These brands have become trusted companions, enabling me to explore the full potential of acrylic paint and push the boundaries of my abstract compositions.
When it comes to acrylic paints, I have a curated selection of brands that have become indispensable art tools in my creative process.
These trusted brands offer a diverse range of qualities and characteristics, catering to my ever-evolving artistic needs and preferences.
(Here are some of my Abstract Acrylic Paintings and I would appreciate it if you could share your thoughts about my work).
- Golden Acrylic Paints
One of my go-to choices is Golden Acrylic Paints, renowned for their top-quality and rich colours. These paints boast a creamy and smooth consistency, with a high pigment load that allows for bold and intense hues.
Additionally, Golden offers a wide range of acrylic colours, gels and mediums, providing me with a comprehensive toolbox to explore different techniques and effects.
- Winsor & Newton
Winsor & Newton’s Acrylic Paints have also earned a place among my essential art tools. These professional-quality paints ensure no colour shift from wet to dry, allowing me to work with confidence and precision.
Their longer working time and smooth, buttery consistency make them a pleasure to use, while the high pigment concentration delivers vibrant and captivating colours that truly bring my abstract compositions to life.
- Liquitex
Liquitex Acrylic Paints are another brand that I rely on for their high quality and versatility. Known for their buttery, smooth consistency, these paints are highly pigmented, resulting in vibrant and rich colours that elevate my artwork.
Liquitex offers a variety of formats, including heavy body and soft body paints, allowing me to experiment with different textures and applications to achieve unique effects.
Sennelier
Finally, Sennelier’s Acrylic Paints have proven to be a valuable addition to my artistic arsenal. These artist-grade acrylics boast a creamy texture and rich tones, with a high pigment content that ensures stability and clarity of colour.
Sennelier offers a broad palette, including both traditional and modern pigments, enabling me to explore a diverse range of hues and tones in my abstract works.
If you’re considering purchasing acrylic paints, I highly recommend trying a few samples from different brands to see which one aligns best with your artistic style and creative vision.
(It would be useful to learn about How to Read a Paint Tube Label. There is such valuable information about each paint on its label.)
(Another article that might be of interest is Colour Theory Introduction for Beginner Artists).
Application Tools
In the realm of abstract painting, the art tools used for applying paint play a crucial role in shaping the final outcome. These tools not only serve as a means of transferring pigment onto the canvas but also offer unique opportunities for creative expression and texture development.
Among my essential application tools, three stand out as indispensable companions in my artistic journey.
Palette Knives
The palette knife is a truly versatile art tool that allows me to create abstract paintings with a distinct textural quality.
Unlike traditional brushes, palette knives enable me to apply thick layers of paint, resulting in a three-dimensional effect that adds depth and interest to my compositions.
However, the palette knife’s capabilities extend far beyond mere texture creation. Its flexible blade allows me to create a wide range of shapes and lines, from thin and delicate to broad and sweeping.
This versatility empowers me to explore various techniques and styles, facilitating a more efficient painting process by covering large areas quickly.
Additionally, palette knives are remarkably easy to clean and maintain, often requiring just a simple wipe to remove excess paint. This practicality, combined with their durability, makes them a reliable and long-lasting choice among my art tools.
Paint Brushes
While palette knives offer a unique set of advantages, traditional paint brushes remain an essential part of my toolkit.
I employ a variety of brush sizes, ranging from wide 5-inch brushes to smaller, more detailed options. Each brush size serves a specific purpose, allowing me to tackle both broad strokes and intricate details with equal precision.
The ability to alternate between palette knives and brushes enables me to create dynamic and layered compositions, blending techniques to achieve the desired effect.
This versatility is key to my artistic process, as it allows me to explore different approaches and continuously push the boundaries of my creative expression.
The Quill
Among my collection of art tools, one unconventional item stands out: the quill. This traditional writing instrument has found a unique purpose in my abstract painting practice, serving as a marking tool that lends a distinctive touch to my artwork.
The quill’s flexible tip allows me to create remarkably fine lines and intricate details that might be challenging to achieve with thicker brushes or tools.
Its fluidity and grace translate into graceful, flowing strokes that add a sense of movement and energy to my compositions.
By manipulating the quill in various ways, such as flicking, twisting or dragging, I can create unique textures and patterns that add depth and interest to my paintings.
This ability to experiment and explore new techniques is a constant source of inspiration, pushing me to continuously evolve my artistic expression.
The Unconventional Tool: My Hands
While many artists rely on a wide array of brushes, palette knives and other specialised art tools to create their masterpieces, I have found that one of my most valuable tools is something far more unconventional – my own hands.
Although I am right-handed, I frequently incorporate the use of my left hand into my creative process, tapping into a unique connection between the hemispheres of the brain and the act of painting.
Left-Hand vs. Right-Brain Creativity
There is a long-held belief that left-handedness is linked to the right side of the brain, which is often associated with creativity and artistic expression.
However, it’s important to note that this notion is more of a myth than a scientific reality.
The brain exhibits some degree of specialisation between the hemispheres. The right side is traditionally thought to be responsible for creative tasks. However, recent research suggests creativity is a complex process. It involves many parts of the brain working together in concert.
The idea that being left-handed automatically makes one more creative is an oversimplification of the intricate workings of the human mind.
The Intimate Connection
Regardless of the scientific validity of the left-hand/right-brain connection, I have found that using my left hand in my painting process allows me to tap into a unique and intimate relationship with the canvas.
There is something deeply personal and visceral about the act of applying paint directly with my hands, feeling the textures and the flow of the pigments against my skin.
This unconventional approach has become an integral part of my artistic practice, as it enables me to achieve a level of control and expression that can be challenging to replicate with traditional art tools.
By using my hands, I can create organic shapes, blend colours seamlessly and infuse my artwork with a sense of raw, unbridled energy.
Perhaps more importantly, the use of my hands as art tools has fostered a profound connection between my physical being and the creative process.
Each stroke, each smear, each imprint on the canvas becomes an extension of my own self, a tangible manifestation of my emotions and inner world.
Handmade Art, Literally
Beyond the creative and expressive aspects of using my hands as art tools, there is a certain satisfaction in knowing that my abstract paintings are, quite literally, handmade.
This deeply personal approach imbues each piece with a unique and authentic quality, a testament to the power of human touch and the endless possibilities of artistic expression.
Artist’s Health, Safety, and Environmental Considerations
While the pursuit of artistic expression is undoubtedly a fulfilling endeavour, it is crucial to recognise the potential risks associated with some of the art tools and materials we employ.
As artists, we often work with hazardous substances, such as certain paints, solvents and chemicals, which can pose threats to our health and the environment if not handled with proper care and precaution.
Health and Safety Practices
When working with art materials like acrylic and oil paints, solvents and other potentially hazardous substances, it is imperative to take the following precautionary measures to safeguard our well-being:
- Avoid Ingestion: Never eat, drink or smoke while working in the studio environment to prevent the accidental ingestion of toxic materials.
- Minimise Skin Contact: Limit direct contact with art materials, especially solvents, to avoid skin irritation or the absorption of harmful substances into the body.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the studio space to prevent the buildup of toxic fumes from solvents, paints and other volatile compounds.
- Use Protective Gear: Wear gloves, masks and protective eyewear when necessary, especially when handling pigments or chemicals that can be inhaled or cause eye irritation.
By adhering to these safety practices, we not only protect ourselves from potential health risks but also create a safer and more conducive working environment for our artistic pursuits.
Responsible Waste Disposal
Beyond personal health and safety, it is equally important to consider the environmental impact of our art tools and materials.
Improper disposal of hazardous waste can have detrimental effects on our planet, contaminating water sources and harming ecosystems.
As artists, we must take responsibility for the proper disposal of materials such as used solvents, rags soaked in paint and any substances containing heavy metals or toxic compounds.
It is crucial to follow local regulations and guidelines for the safe disposal of these materials, utilising designated facilities or services designed for hazardous waste management.
Sustainable Practices and Eco-Friendly Alternatives
In an effort to reduce our environmental footprint, we can also explore sustainable practices and eco-friendly alternatives when it comes to our art tools and materials. This may include:
Recycling and Repurposing: Finding creative ways to reuse or repurpose materials, such as canvases, paper or scraps to minimise waste.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Investigating and incorporating eco-friendly art supplies, such as water-based paints or plant-based pigments, whenever possible.
Energy Efficiency: Opting for energy-efficient lighting and equipment in the studio to reduce our carbon footprint.
By embracing these sustainable practices, we not only contribute to the preservation of our planet but also foster a more conscious and responsible approach to our artistic endeavours.
I understand that adhering to these health, safety and environmental practices can be challenging during the creative process.
Putting them into practice is often easier said than done. Despite my best efforts, I’m not perfect in following every guideline.
However, I continue striving to remain aware and conscious of the potential impact our art tools and materials can have on our well-being and the environment.
It’s an ongoing journey and I keep trying to improve and make responsible choices whenever possible.
Conclusion – My Essential Art Tools
As an artist who values simplicity and minimalism, my approach to art tools has been a continuous journey of curation and refinement.
Over the years, I have learned that the true essence of artistic expression lies not in the abundance of materials but in the ability to harness the potential of a carefully selected set of art tools.
Throughout this blog post, I have shared the art tools that have become indispensable companions in my creative process, the tools that enable me to bring my abstract visions to life.
From the surfaces upon which I paint, be it cotton canvas, wood panels or acid-free paper, to the mediums that fuel my artistic explorations, such as oil paints and acrylic paints, each element has been thoughtfully chosen to align with my artistic style and preferences.
I have also delved into the application tools that play a crucial role in shaping my abstract compositions, including palette knives, paint brushes and even the unconventional quill.
Furthermore, I have highlighted the intimate connection I have forged with my own hands, which have become invaluable art tools in their own right, allowing me to infuse my work with a raw, visceral energy.
While my approach to art tools may seem minimalistic, it is deeply rooted in a profound respect for the creative process and a desire to maintain a focused, uncluttered environment that fosters artistic expression.
By curating a streamlined set of art tools, I can channel my energy and attention towards the artwork itself, allowing my creativity to flow freely and unhindered.
However, it is important to acknowledge that the pursuit of artistic expression comes with responsibilities beyond the creative realm. As artists, we must remain mindful of the potential hazards associated with certain art tools and materials, prioritising our health and safety, as well as the well-being of our planet.
Throughout this blog post, I have emphasised the importance of implementing responsible waste disposal practices, exploring sustainable alternatives and embracing eco-friendly choices whenever possible.
By doing so, we not only protect ourselves but also contribute to the preservation of our environment for future generations of artists and creative souls.
In the end, the art tools we choose are deeply personal and reflective of our individual artistic journeys.
While I have shared my preferences and experiences, it is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Each artist must embark on their own exploration, experimenting with different materials and techniques until they find the art tools that resonate with their unique creative vision.
Over the years, I’ve created many abstract non-representational art using oils and acrylics on various surfaces. And it has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience using different art supplies.
I would be grateful to hear your thoughts and experiences regarding the art tools you use in your own creative practice.
If you have any feedback, suggestions or insights to share, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Your perspectives could not only enrich the dialogue surrounding this topic but also potentially inspire fellow artists to explore new materials or techniques.
I firmly believe that fostering an open exchange of ideas is crucial for the growth and evolution of the artistic community.
Your voice matters, and I look forward to an engaging discussion.
