Have you ever wondered what exactly artists use as their canvas? Whether you are an art enthusiast or just curious about the creative process, it’s a question that has likely crossed your mind. In this article, we will explore the various surfaces artists use to bring their masterpieces to life. From classic canvases to unconventional materials, you’ll be intrigued by the versatility and innovation artists employ to express their artistic vision. So, let’s embark on this journey together and uncover the answer to the age-old question: What is the thing that artists paint on?

Types of Surfaces

When it comes to creating art, choosing the right painting surface is crucial. Different surfaces can yield different effects and have unique qualities that can enhance or challenge your artistic process. Here are some common types of surfaces that artists paint on:

Canvas

Canvas is one of the most popular and versatile surfaces for painting. It is made from fabric, typically cotton or linen, and is stretched tightly over a wooden frame. Canvas provides a smooth and stable surface that is suitable for a wide range of painting techniques, from oil and acrylic to mixed media.

Paper

Paper is another common surface for painting, particularly for watercolor and drawing techniques. Watercolor paper is specifically designed to withstand water-based paints, while drawing paper can handle a variety of media, including pencil, charcoal, and ink. There are also specialized papers for printmaking and mixed media artworks.

Wood

Wood can add a unique texture and warmth to your paintings. Artists often use wooden panels as a durable and sturdy surface that can withstand heavy applications of paint. Birch panels, MDF panels, and plywood are commonly used for this purpose. Wooden planks can also be used for more rustic and unconventional art pieces.

Metal

For a more industrial and contemporary look, artists may choose to paint on metal surfaces. Aluminum panels are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making them a popular choice. Steel, tin, copper, and brass can also be used for painting, providing a metallic sheen and interesting texture to your artwork.

Glass

Painting on glass can create a unique and translucent effect. Stained glass is often used for intricate and colorful designs, while glass panels can be utilized for more experimental and contemporary works. Glass jars and bottles can also serve as interesting surfaces for painting, especially for small-scale projects.

Plastic

Plastic surfaces offer a smooth and glossy finish to your paintings. Acrylic sheets provide a translucent effect similar to glass, while polymer clay can be shaped and molded into various forms. PVC boards are another option, offering durability and flexibility for different artistic needs.

Fabric

Fabric can be a versatile and unconventional surface for painting. Cotton canvas is commonly used for traditional painting techniques, providing a textured and absorbent surface. Silk and linen fabrics can create a more luxurious and delicate effect, perfect for mixed media and experimental artworks.

Stone

Stone surfaces, such as marble or granite, can add a sense of permanence and elegance to your paintings. While painting directly on stone may require special techniques and preparation, the unique texture and timeless appeal can result in stunning and one-of-a-kind creations.

Murals

Murals are large-scale paintings done directly on walls or other surfaces in public spaces. They often depict narratives or convey social messages. While murals can be painted on various surfaces, the choice typically depends on the location and the desired effect the artist wants to achieve.

Digital

In the modern era, digital painting has gained immense popularity. Artists can now create stunning artworks using software and graphic tablets. Graphic tablets provide a digital canvas for artists to paint on, while touchscreen devices offer a more intuitive and accessible option for on-the-go painting.

Prepping the Surface

Once you have chosen your desired painting surface, it is essential to properly prepare it before you begin your artwork. Prepping the surface ensures that the paint adheres well and that your artwork will have a long-lasting and professional finish. Here are some important steps to take when prepping different surfaces:

Choosing the Surface

Choosing the right surface for your artwork depends on several factors, including the type of paint you will be using, the desired effect, and the longevity of your artwork. Consider the characteristics of each surface and how they align with your artistic vision.

Sizing and Priming

Sizing and priming the surface is crucial to ensure proper paint adhesion and prevent the paint from seeping into the material. Sizing involves applying a layer of sealant or adhesive to the surface, which helps protect it from moisture damage. Priming involves applying a layer of primer, such as gesso, to create an even and absorbent surface for the paint.

Sealing and Preparing

For certain surfaces, especially wood and metal, it is important to seal the surface to protect it from moisture and other environmental factors. Sealing can be done using specialized sealants or varnishes. Additionally, you may need to sand the surface or apply other techniques to create a smooth and even base for your painting.

Preparing Special Surfaces

Certain surfaces, such as glass or plastic, may require additional preparation steps. For example, painting on glass may involve cleaning the surface thoroughly and using special glass paints to ensure adhesion and longevity. Similarly, plastic surfaces may require sanding or using specific types of paints depending on the desired effect.

Canvas as Painting Surface

Canvas is undoubtedly one of the most popular and widely used surfaces by artists. It provides a versatile and stable foundation for a variety of painting techniques. There are several different types of canvas that artists can choose from:

Traditional Canvas

Traditional canvas, made from cotton or linen, is a staple for many artists. It is known for its durability and ability to withstand different types of paints and mediums. Traditional canvas is available in various sizes and thicknesses, allowing artists to choose the perfect canvas for their needs.

Stretched Canvas

Stretched canvas refers to canvas that has been tightly stretched and stapled onto a wooden frame. This type of canvas is ready for immediate use and eliminates the need for additional framing. Stretched canvas is widely available in art supply stores and comes in both pre-primed and unprimed options.

Canvas Panels

Canvas panels are lightweight and portable alternatives to stretched canvas. They consist of canvas adhered to a rigid panel, such as cardboard or wood. Canvas panels are great for plein air painting or for artists who prefer a more sturdy surface. They come in various sizes and can be easily stored or transported.

Canvas Rolls

Canvas rolls are uncut and unprimed canvas that artists can customize to fit their specific needs. They provide the flexibility to create artworks of various sizes and shapes. Canvas rolls are often used by artists who work on large-scale or unconventional projects.

Customized Canvas

Artists can also choose to create their own customized canvas by stretching canvas onto a frame of their desired dimensions. This allows for complete control over the size and quality of the canvas. Customized canvas can be primed or unprimed, depending on the artist’s preference and technique.

Paper as Painting Surface

Paper is a versatile and affordable surface for painting, particularly for watercolor and drawing techniques. There are various types of paper available that are specifically designed for different artistic purposes:

Watercolor Paper

Watercolor paper is designed to withstand the moisture from water-based paints. It has a textured surface that allows for better paint absorption and control. Watercolor paper comes in different weights and textures, offering artists flexibility and options for their watercolor artworks.

Drawing Paper

Drawing paper is suitable for a wide range of media, including pencil, charcoal, and ink. It is typically smooth and comes in various weights. Drawing paper provides a reliable and accessible surface for sketching, illustrating, and other drawing techniques.

Printmaking Paper

Printmaking paper is specifically designed to withstand the pressure and ink used in printmaking processes, such as linocut or etching. It has a smoother surface compared to watercolor or drawing paper, allowing for crisp and detailed prints. Printmaking paper comes in different weights and sizes, accommodating various printmaking techniques.

Mixed Media Paper

Mixed media paper is a versatile option for artists who like to combine different mediums in their artworks. It is typically heavy-weight and has a medium-rough texture that can handle both wet and dry media. Mixed media paper allows artists to experiment and layer different materials without the fear of the paper buckling or tearing.

Wood as Painting Surface

Painting on wood can add a unique and rustic touch to your artwork. There are various types of wood surfaces that artists can choose from, each with its own characteristics:

Wooden Panels

Wooden panels are a popular choice for artists who seek a durable and sturdy surface. They provide a smooth and hard canvas that can handle heavy applications of paint and various painting techniques. Wooden panels are commonly used for oils, acrylics, and mixed media artworks.

Birch Panels

Birch panels offer a smooth and even surface for painting. They are lightweight and resistant to warping, making them ideal for artists who work on large-scale or outdoor projects. Birch panels come in various sizes and thicknesses, allowing you to choose the perfect panel for your artistic needs.

MDF Panels

MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) panels are made from compressed wood fibers and provide a smooth and stable surface for painting. They are less susceptible to warping and cracking compared to traditional wood panels. MDF panels are popular among artists who prefer a consistent and economical painting surface.

Plywood

Plywood is a versatile and affordable option for artists. It consists of multiple layers of wood veneer glued together, resulting in a strong and stable surface. Plywood can be sanded and primed to create a smooth and even base for your artwork. It is commonly used for acrylic and mixed media paintings.

Wooden Planks

For artists seeking a more unconventional and rustic surface, wooden planks can be a unique choice. Planks can be arranged in various ways and combined with other materials to create dimensional and textural artworks. Wooden planks provide a natural and organic feel to your paintings, perfect for exploring different artistic styles.

Metal as Painting Surface

Painting on metal surfaces can result in stunning and contemporary artworks. Metal provides a distinct texture and metallic sheen that adds a modern and industrial touch to your paintings. Here are some common metal surfaces used by artists:

Aluminum Panels

Aluminum panels are lightweight yet durable, making them a popular choice among artists. They are resistant to corrosion and provide a smooth and even surface for painting. Aluminum panels can be primed with gesso or other sealants to create a suitable surface for different painting techniques.

Steel

Steel is a strong and robust material that can handle heavy applications of paint. It provides a unique and industrial texture that can add depth and interest to your artworks. Steel surfaces can be left bare or treated with rust inhibitors for added durability and longevity.

Tin

Tin can be an interesting choice for artists who seek a vintage and nostalgic feel to their paintings. It offers a slightly textured surface and a delicate sheen. Tin surfaces can be prepared by priming and sealing before applying paint to ensure proper adhesion and durability.

Copper

Copper surfaces can create a rich and warm color palette for your paintings. Over time, copper develops a unique patina that adds depth and character to your artwork. Artists may choose to leave the copper surface exposed or treat it with protective coatings to maintain its original shine.

Brass

Brass surfaces provide a golden hue and an elegant touch to your paintings. They can be polished to a high shine or left to develop a natural patina over time. Brass surfaces require proper cleaning and preparation to ensure paint adhesion and longevity.

Glass as Painting Surface

Painting on glass can result in stunning and translucent artworks. The transparency of glass allows artists to explore light, reflection, and transparency in their paintings. Here are some common glass surfaces used by artists:

Stained Glass

Stained glass is a popular medium for creating intricate and colorful designs. It is typically used in the creation of windows and decorative elements. Stained glass artists use a variety of techniques, including painting with specialized glass paints and incorporating lead cames to outline the design.

Glass Panels

Painting on glass panels offers artists a contemporary and experimental surface for their artworks. Clear glass panels can be primed and painted on the backside, allowing the colors to shine through the glass. Colored or opaque glass panels can also be used, creating interesting effects and textures.

Glass Jars and Bottles

Recycling glass jars and bottles can provide artists with interesting and unconventional painting surfaces. Small-scale artworks can be created by applying paints directly onto the glass surface. Artists may also choose to combine painting with other techniques, such as etching or collage, to create unique and upcycled art pieces.

Plastic as Painting Surface

Plastic surfaces offer a smooth and glossy finish to your paintings. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and provide a versatile canvas for various painting techniques. Here are some common plastic surfaces used by artists:

Acrylic Sheets

Acrylic sheets provide a translucent effect similar to glass, making them an alternative for artists who prefer a more lightweight and portable surface. They are available in different thicknesses and can be cut to custom sizes. Acrylic sheets can be painted on directly or prepared with a primer for better paint adhesion.

Polymer Clay

Polymer clay is a malleable and versatile material that can be shaped and molded into various forms. Artists can create three-dimensional artworks by painting directly onto polymer clay sculptures or using clay as a canvas for their paintings. Polymer clay surfaces need to be properly cured and sealed before painting.

PVC Boards

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) boards are durable and waterproof, making them a popular choice for outdoor artworks. They provide a smooth and rigid surface for painting and are often used by artists who work with acrylics or mixed media. PVC boards can be cut to different sizes and shapes, offering artists flexibility in their artistic endeavors.

Fabric as Painting Surface

Painting on fabric can add a unique and textural element to your artworks. Depending on the type of fabric used, paintings can range from soft and delicate to bold and vibrant. Here are some common fabric surfaces used by artists:

Cotton Canvas

Cotton canvas is a traditional and popular surface for painting. It provides a textured and absorbent surface that is suitable for a wide range of painting techniques. Cotton canvas can be stretched on a frame for stability or used as a loose fabric for experimentation and mixed media artworks.

Silk

Silk fabric can create a luxurious and delicate effect in your paintings. It has a smooth and lustrous surface that allows for vibrant color and fine details. Silk is commonly used for silk painting, where specialized dyes are used to create intricate and flowing designs.

Linen

Linen fabric offers a slightly coarser texture compared to cotton canvas. It is known for its durability and longevity, making it a favorite among professional artists. Linen provides a stable surface for both oil and acrylic paintings and can withstand heavy applications of paint.

Digital Painting Surface

With the advancement of technology, digital painting has become increasingly popular among artists. Digital painting offers a wide range of possibilities and allows for easy experimentation and modification. Here are some common digital painting surfaces:

Graphic Tablets

Graphic tablets are designed specifically for digital painting. These devices consist of a pressure-sensitive pad or screen that can be used with a stylus or digital pen. Graphic tablets provide a realistic and intuitive painting experience, allowing artists to mimic traditional painting techniques digitally.

Touchscreen Devices

Touchscreen devices, such as tablets and smartphones, offer a convenient and portable option for digital painting. Numerous painting and drawing apps are available on these devices, allowing artists to create artwork on the go. Touchscreen devices have responsive screens that can detect varying levels of pressure, providing a dynamic painting experience.

In conclusion, there is a vast range of surfaces available for artists to explore and experiment with. Choosing the right surface for your artwork depends on various factors such as the desired effect, the medium used, and personal preference. Whether it is traditional canvas, paper, wood, metal, glass, plastic, fabric, stone, murals, or digital surfaces, each offers unique qualities that can enhance your artistic process. By understanding the characteristics and prep requirements of different surfaces, you can unlock new creative possibilities and take your art to new heights. Happy painting!