I often get asked about the products I use to create my paintings, so I've compiled a list of materials that I like to use. I've also added a resource section which features books and other products that inspire me.
Winsor & Newton Artist Acrylics
I love these paints, the colours are sensational and the texture is just right for most of my work. These paints are fairly fluid, and make blending and working in layers as I do really simple.
Golden Heavy Body Acrylics
I really enjoy using Golden, the consistency is wonderfully luxurious and the colour palette is to die for.
My favourite shade in this range is Teal which I use regularly in my coastal paintings.
Daler Rowney Artists Acrylics
These paints are slightly thicker to work with than W&N ones, but the colours have a remarkable depth to them and they can be watered down for layering. A lovely consistency and good colour palette.
Derwent Watercolour Crayons
I use these to embellish my paintings, drawing straight into the wet paint or rendering over the top of dry work with them. They are amongst the best I've tried so I've stuck with them.
Paint Brushes
I use a variety of different paint brushes, and they include brands such as Pro Arte and Da Vinci. I tend to use flat brushes for laying down the first wash and large area work, and filberts. I use smaller round headed brushes for detail, the smallest size I have is 000. You can find a large range of these brushes available online. My favourite online art shops are Cowling and Wilcox, and Great Art.
'Cornwall' Hahnemuhle Watercolour Paper
I've tried and tested many different kinds of watercolour paper over the years, but this is one of my absolute favourites. I paint in acrylics and watercolour on this, and it has a really lovely texture and luminosity as well as being thick and high quality. You can purchase this from many online art retailers.
Acrylics Unleashed by Glyn Macey
I must confess to having a complete art crush on Glyn Macey's vivid paintings of the West Country. His use of colour and collage is inspirational, and this book has inspired me enormously, encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone and try new ways of working. Highly recommended for both novice and professional.
Taking Flight: Inspiration and Techniques to Give Your Creative Spirit Wings by Kelly Rae Roberts
A wonderful, inspiring book by whimsical mixed media artist Kelly Rae Roberts. Full of encouragement, step by step tutorials and inner wisdom, this book is perfect for those of you who need an injection of positivity and self belief.
I absolutely LOVE your paintings. I used to do watercolours years ago, but have not done any for years now, but seeing your glorious colourful work has made me want to have a go at acrylics. You have been my inspiration!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes
Michelle Picken
Thanks for your comment Michelle, I'm really pleased to hear that you've been inspired to give acrylics a go, I'm sure you'll love them!
DeleteGood luck :)
Julia x