Acrylic Techniques

Most artists are naturally drawn to a certain medium, but it’s important that all painters remember to explore the unique personality and possibilities of many different styles and media. In this instructional art video, renowned artist Stephen Quiller encourages students of all levels to explore the versatility of acrylic paints.

Quiller has been a longtime advocate of the acrylic medium, and has never been afraid to show his passion for their versatility and unique qualities to his students. This lesson begins with a discussion of acrylic paints themselves, and the many different qualities it can have.

Quiller demonstrates the way that acrylics paints can be transparent, translucent, opaque, thick or thin; as well as the fact that they can have the consistency of watercolor, casein, or oils. Throughout this 55-minute video, Quiller demonstrates several ways to handle acrylics, alone and in combination with other types of paint. He advices students to embrace the different color families that acrylic paints have to offer, and provides examples of the depth and texture that are possible when artist can restrain themselves to leaving some white space on the canvas.

Quiller is passionate about the way that the combination of color families can make for a richer scene, no matter what you’re painting. During the lesson, students will learn how to apply a variety of Quiller’s favorite acrylic techniques to a variety of surfaces including paper, illustration board, gessoed canvas, clayboard, and wood panel.