The Classic Appeal of Painting on Wooden Panels

The use of wooden artist panels for painting has a long and storied history that dates back to the early days of Western art. In the Middle Ages, wooden panels were the preferred support for painting, particularly for the creation of religious icons and illuminated manuscripts. The wood provided a strong and stable support for the paint, and allowed for intricate details to be rendered with precision.

As the Renaissance era began, artists began to experiment with new materials and techniques, and the use of wooden panels for painting declined. Canvas, which was made from linen or hemp, became the new support of choice for many artists. Canvas was less expensive and more readily available than wood, and it allowed for larger and more flexible paintings.

The paintings on canvas were also much easier to transport as they could be removed from stretchers and rolled. Can you imagine trying to move a giant wooden painting before cars were invented? A horse and cart ride would likely have damaged large rigid wooden artist panels if they needed to be transported long distances.

Despite the rise in popularity of canvas, wooden panels continued to be used by some artists, particularly those working in the Northern European tradition. The Flemish painters of the 15th and 16th centuries, such as Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch, were known for their skillful use of wooden panels, and their paintings remain some of the most iconic works of the era.

Today, wooden panels are still used by some artists as a support for painting. The rigid and stable nature of the wood allows for precise brushwork and intricate details, and the warmth and texture of the wood can add a unique visual quality to a painting. However, the vast majority of artists continue to use canvas as their primary support, due to its versatility and affordability.

In conclusion, the use of wooden artist panels for painting has a rich history that spans many centuries. While it has declined in popularity in recent times, wooden panels remain a viable and attractive option for artists who value precision and detail in their work.

Wooden artist panels are some of my favourite surfaces to work on. If you want to check out some of my paintings on wooden panels, there are many in my Australian Birds Collection of paintings.