Color Theory
What are the primary colors, and why can’t they be created by mixing other colors?
The primary colors are red, blue, and yellow. They can’t be made by mixing other colors because they are the building blocks for all other colors.
What is the difference between a flat brush and a round brush, and how does each one affect your painting?
A flat brush has a straight, wide edge and is great for bold, straight lines, while a round brush has a pointed tip and is better for details and curves.
What is a 'hue,' and can you name a few examples?
Hue refers to the pure color itself, like red, blue, or yellow
Which famous artist painted "The Starry Night"?
Vincent van Gogh
Why is it important to rinse brushes immediately after using them?
To prevent the paint from drying and hardening on the bristles, which can ruin the brush
How are secondary colors created, and can you name all three of them?
Secondary colors are made by mixing two primary colors. The three secondary colors are green, orange, and purple.
How can a palette knife be used in painting, and what kind of effects can it create?
A palette knife is used for mixing paint, applying thick layers, and creating textured effects like impasto or scraping
What does 'opacity' mean in painting, and how does it affect the way paint looks?
Opacity is how much light can pass through paint. Opaque paint doesn’t let light through, while transparent paint allows light to pass through.
Which artist is known for painting large water lilies?
Claude Monet
Why shouldn’t you rinse large amounts of acrylic paint down the sink?
Acrylic paint can harden in pipes and cause clogs because it’s plastic-based when it dries. It’s better to use palette covers and/or wipe off excess paint onto a paper towel or rag before rinsing brushes.
What are tertiary colors, and can you give an example?
Tertiary colors are created by mixing a primary color with a secondary color, such as red-orange, blue-green, or yellow-green
What is dry brushing, and how does it help create texture in your painting?
Dry brushing involves using a dry brush with very little paint, which results in a rough, textured effect on the surface
How do you create a tint, and what happens to the color?
A tint is made by adding white to a color, which lightens the color.
Which artist is famous for his 'drip paintings' and is considered a leader of abstract expressionism?
Jackson Pollock
Why is it important to reshape the bristles of a brush after washing it?
To maintain the brush's original shape so it works properly for future use
What are complementary colors, and how do they affect the visual impact of a painting when used together?
Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel, like red and green. When used together, they create strong contrast and make each other appear more vibrant.
What happens when you use the wet-on-wet technique in painting, and how does it affect color blending?
Wet-on-wet involves applying wet paint onto a wet surface, allowing colors to blend smoothly and create soft transitions
How does 'shading' help create the illusion of depth in a painting?
Shading darkens a color, creating shadows and depth to make objects look more three-dimensional.
Who painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel?
Michelangelo
What should you do if you accidentally spill paint on the floor?
Clean it up immediately with a damp cloth or paper towel before it dries to avoid stains or permanent damage.
What’s the difference between warm and cool colors, and how do they affect the mood of a painting?
Warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows) feel energetic and dynamic, while cool colors (blues, greens, purples) feel calm and relaxing
How does the glazing technique work, and what effect does it have on the final painting?
Glazing involves applying a thin, transparent layer of paint over dry paint to create depth, modify colors, or add luminosity
What is the purpose of an 'underpainting,' and when do artists use it?
An underpainting is a preliminary layer of paint that helps establish the composition and values before adding final layers.
Which female artist is known for her self-portraits and often included elements of nature, animals, and Mexican culture in her work?
Frida Kahlo
What should you do with your paint supplies at the end of class to keep the workspace clean?
Wash all tools, wipe down surfaces, and return materials to their proper storage spots