Acrylic painting is a versatile and expressive art form that allows artists to experiment with a wide variety of techniques. One of the keys to unlocking the full potential of acrylic paints is understanding and using mediums. But what exactly is a medium, and how can it transform your art?
What Is a Medium?
In painting, a medium refers to any substance added to paint to alter its properties. This can include changing the texture, finish, drying time, or viscosity of the paint. Acrylic mediums are particularly popular because of their adaptability, making it possible to achieve effects ranging from delicate washes to bold, textured strokes.
While some artists use water as a simple and effective way to thin their acrylic paint and carry pigment across the canvas, acrylic mediums offer far greater possibilities.
For a step-by-step guide on thinning acrylic paint with water, check out this helpful tutorial.
Types of Acrylic Mediums
- Matte and Glossy Mediums
- Matte medium creates a flat, non-reflective finish that is ex

