02/19/2008 21:53:57

Hi Durinda,
I took a little time to look at your lovely artwork, thank you for sharing it with us.

There are several ways to deal with texture in painting. One thing to keep in mind is how and when we actually see textures. On the whole, textures are seen in light and not much in shadow. So you only really need to describe the texture well in your lit passages and hinted at in the darker ones. This makes it part of the overall direction and 'read' to your work. Your center of interest or at least where you wish to direct the eye of the viewer is where to put the most textural passages.
 
Look to your subjects’ textures and study them carefully. A painting does not need heavy impasto paint to ‘read’ as if it has great texture. Fairly thin strokes with just a bit of edge will do. Your goal is to ‘catch’ the light on the little bead of paint. Good draftsmanship can convey great texture without impasto too.
 
I highly recommend Emile Gruppe’s book: Brushwork. It is a virtual treasure trove of technique most of which can be accomplished with not much more paint than you already use. Also, David A. Leffel has both books and videos where he demonstrates simply masterful technique.

To me, texture is another dimension of the language of the artist. It works in concert with good brushwork, color, composition and value.

I hope this helps in some small way.

Warm Regards,

David

02/19/2008 15:42:58

Thanks, RogerLemonde and Lisabeth for your helpful comments.  It's great to see that there are lots of ways to create "visual" texture as well as actual texture on our artwork. 

Durinda

02/19/2008 10:39:30

Texture  can be simulated by the use of your paints. A dry brush layer under a thin coat of top painting will add the look of texture,  varying depending on the color contrast.  Or try doing your under painting  by blocking in your large areas with a cheap sponge rather than a brush.

My work is digital and several of my works attract people wanting to touch the surface. It is amusing to see them try to work out how it looks so textured when it is dead flat.

02/18/2008 21:29:48

Hi,

If you use acrylic paint, there are many additives which make the texture, stucco, paste, sand, fabric. They are all for sale in the acrylics section.

Im having so much fun with texture! Try it and let me know.

Live in the light,

Lisabeth