Acrylic on paper

"Beach Refrain", acrylic over watercolour
“Summer Refrain”, acrylic over watercolour, 22″ x 15″

For quick studies, I invariably enjoy using acrylic on paper. Watercolour-like washes, cemented into opaque passages and the potential for some impasto. It offers the freedom to explore fluid effects, continuing into the realm of more painterly approaches – perhaps integrating watercolour and dry media along the way.

I often use watercolour paper, but any stiff paper or card will work. That said, watercolour paper is designed to control wet effects and washes which can be moved around in much the same way as any other water media. In contrast to canvas – or any other impervious surface – paper welcomes the paint, and it’s texture becomes part of the work.

I start with a loose approach, sometimes as for a watercolour or perhaps just ladling on a base of opaque paint. I’m already having fun – here are a few examples!

Check out the gallery on: https://www.davidkearn.com/