The enduring beauty of acrylics: a plastic masterpiece

Acrylic paint is a popular medium for artists due to its versatility and ability to create a wide range of effects. One unique characteristic of acrylic paint is that when it dries, it becomes a type of plastic.

When an artist applies acrylic paint to a surface, the paint is made up of pigments suspended in a polymer emulsion. The water in the emulsion evaporates as the paint dries, leaving behind the pigments and the polymer. The polymer then cross-links and forms a flexible and durable film. This film is essentially plastic, which is why acrylic paint is sometimes referred to as "water-based plastic paint."

The fact that acrylic paint dries to form a plastic film has several implications for artists. First, it means that acrylic paintings are highly durable and long-lasting. The plastic film is resistant to cracking, peeling, and fading, making it an excellent choice for artwork that will be on display for extended periods of time.

Additionally, the plastic nature of dried acrylic paint allows the artist to manipulate the surface of the painting after it has dried. This can be done through a technique known as "scraping back," where the artist uses a palette knife or other tool to remove layers of dried paint, revealing underlying layers and creating interesting textural effects.

Furthermore, the plastic nature of dried acrylic paint allows it to be easily dissolved and reworked, even after it has fully dried. This is because the polymer emulsion is not fully cured and remains soluble in water. This means that an artist can go back and make changes to their painting, even after it has been on display for a long time.

In summary, acrylic paint is a unique medium that offers a range of benefits to artists. Its ability to dry and form a plastic film gives it durability, flexibility, and the ability to be manipulated and reworked. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, acrylic paint is a medium worth exploring.

I predominantly use acrylic paint because it means that my paintings will stand the test of time and delight my collectors for years to come. If you would like to check out some of my acrylic paintings you can find them in my Australian Birds Collection and Original Minis section of my website.