Murals have become a popular feature in many buildings all over the world, particularly modernist and contemporary ones. These paintings are created using a variety of techniques, including tempera painting, porcelain enamel and encaustic. Using different materials to paint a mural can make it more unique and interesting.
Encaustic painting
Encaustic painting is a unique art form that uses wax, beeswax, and colored pigments. It is an archival technique that produces beautiful and vibrant works of art.
The art of encaustic painting dates back to ancient Egypt, when portraits of the deceased were a common way to commemorate someone’s life. During the Roman empire, encaustic painting was used for funerary portraits. However, it was eventually abandoned when the Roman empire collapsed.
Today, encaustic painting is used for a variety of purposes. Many artists incorporate it into their artwork. Some use stencils, and others apply oil paint or alcohol ink to their works.
Encaustic painting also offers a unique method of creating art for the wall. Instead of using a glass surface, a wooden panel is coated in a special wax that is heated. This makes the painting durable and weather resistant.
Tempera painting
Tempera painting is a traditional painting technique that was used in the early ages of art. It is a chemical process that uses pigments ground in water. The result is a decorative flat pattern of bold color masses that creates a distinctive depth of color.
Tempera was used in the ancient world on stone stelae, papyrus rolls, mummy cases, Byzantine icons and illuminated manuscripts. In the Renaissance, tempera was gradually replaced by oil paints.
Today, tempera is still used by professional painters. Tempera paint is an absorbent surface and is suitable for a wide variety of materials.
Tempera painting is a time-consuming process. If you’re going to do a large mural, make sure you plan ahead. Having the right tools will save you a lot of time.
Fresco painting
Fresco painting murals are a form of art that has been around for thousands of years. It involves the application of water-based pigments to freshly applied plaster. The resulting surface has a matte, smooth finish. This technique has been used to create fictive worlds, and is a favorite among artists.
A group of alumnus with advanced fresco expertise gathered at Skowhegan College for a 10-day intensive course. They learned about the history and science of the medium, and how to apply it to a variety of mediums.
For many artists, working with walls is an ongoing process. There are many techniques and materials that can be used to produce an impressive fresco. However, the process is not without its pitfalls. Some materials are better suited for this task than others.
Porcelain enamel
Porcelain enamel murals are created by applying a layer of porcelain enamel to a metallic surface. This technique is used to add colour and depth to ceramics and pottery.
In ancient times, it was used to decorate religious objects. Porcelain enamel is a glassy material that forms a permanent bond with a metal substrate. It is applied to ceramics, pottery and other items.
Enamels have long been admired by jewellery designers. They offer a variety of bright, vibrant colours. The technique of painting with enamel on ceramics is known as ‘enamelling’ or ‘overglaze decoration’.
Enameling is a difficult process. However, it is a fascinating medium that adds a lustrous and textured finish.
It is also a versatile material, which can be used on any other material. While it is commonly used on porcelain, enamels can be applied to glass, stone, and metal.
Modernist forms
Modernist forms in murals are a type of art that seeks to represent the changing social conditions of modern society. It employs techniques such as parody, incorporation, and revisitation.
Some of the major artists of the modernist movement are Andre Breton, Pablo Picasso, Helen Frankenthaler, and Jean Arp. Aside from art, the movements also spilled into philosophy and politics.
The movement started in France in the nineteenth century and was influenced by the French revolution and the emergence of new technologies. By the end of the twentieth century, it had spread to various American cities and European capitals.
After World War I, the movement began to explore how Art could be used to represent contemporary society. Artists became self-conscious of their relationship to modernity.
After World War II, it largely ended in Europe due to the rise of Communism. In America, the movement was suppressed. However, the style found a home in England in the late 1950s.