What's the Difference Between Acrylic and Tempera Paint? And Why Do Artists Sometimes Use Both in the Same Piece?

When it comes to painting, the choice of medium can significantly influence the final outcome of an artwork. Two popular types of paint that artists often consider are acrylic and tempera. While both have their unique characteristics and applications, understanding their differences can help artists make informed decisions about which to use for specific projects. Moreover, it’s fascinating to explore why some artists choose to combine both mediums in a single piece, creating a hybrid effect that leverages the strengths of each.
Composition and Base
Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made from pigment suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion. The polymer base gives acrylic paint its flexibility and durability once it dries. This type of paint is water-soluble when wet but becomes water-resistant when dry, making it versatile for various surfaces and techniques.
Tempera Paint: Tempera paint, on the other hand, is traditionally made from pigment mixed with a water-soluble binder, such as egg yolk (hence the term “egg tempera”). Modern tempera paints may use other binders like gum arabic or cellulose. Tempera is known for its quick-drying properties and matte finish, and it has been used for centuries, particularly in religious and icon paintings.
Drying Time and Workability
Acrylic Paint: One of the most notable features of acrylic paint is its rapid drying time. This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. On the positive side, it allows artists to build up layers quickly, making it ideal for techniques like glazing and impasto. However, the fast drying time can also make blending and reworking more challenging, especially for beginners.
Tempera Paint: Tempera paint also dries quickly, but not as fast as acrylics. This gives artists a bit more time to work with the paint, making it easier to achieve smooth transitions and fine details. However, once tempera paint dries, it is less flexible than acrylics, which can lead to cracking if applied too thickly.
Finish and Texture
Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint dries to a glossy or semi-gloss finish, depending on the brand and formulation. It can be manipulated to create a variety of textures, from smooth and even to thick and textured. Acrylics can also be mixed with various mediums to alter their finish, such as matte medium for a flat look or gel medium for added texture.
Tempera Paint: Tempera paint typically dries to a matte finish, which can give artworks a soft, velvety appearance. The texture of tempera paint is generally smooth, making it well-suited for detailed work and fine lines. However, it lacks the versatility of acrylics when it comes to creating textured surfaces.
Durability and Longevity
Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint is known for its durability and resistance to environmental factors like UV light and moisture. Once dry, acrylic paintings are relatively stable and can last for many years without significant fading or deterioration. This makes acrylics a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor artworks.
Tempera Paint: Tempera paint, while durable, is more susceptible to environmental damage compared to acrylics. It is less resistant to moisture and can be prone to cracking over time, especially if applied in thick layers. However, when properly cared for, tempera paintings can also have a long lifespan, particularly if they are varnished or kept in a controlled environment.
Color Vibrancy and Mixing
Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint is known for its vibrant colors and excellent color retention. The pigments in acrylics are highly concentrated, allowing for rich, saturated hues. Acrylics also mix well, enabling artists to create a wide range of colors and shades. Additionally, acrylics can be thinned with water or acrylic mediums to create transparent washes or glazes.
Tempera Paint: Tempera paint tends to have a more subdued color palette compared to acrylics. While it can still produce vibrant colors, they may not be as intense as those achieved with acrylics. Tempera paints also mix well, but the colors may dry slightly lighter than they appear when wet, which can require some adjustment in the mixing process.
Application Techniques
Acrylic Paint: Acrylic paint is incredibly versatile and can be applied using a variety of techniques, including brushing, pouring, spraying, and even palette knife painting. It adheres well to a wide range of surfaces, including canvas, wood, paper, and even fabric. Acrylics can also be used in mixed media artworks, combining well with other materials like collage elements or ink.
Tempera Paint: Tempera paint is best applied with brushes, and it works particularly well on smooth, prepared surfaces like gessoed panels or paper. It is less suitable for textured surfaces or techniques that require thick applications. Tempera is often used in traditional and illustrative works, where fine details and smooth finishes are desired.
Combining Acrylic and Tempera Paint
Some artists choose to combine acrylic and tempera paints in a single artwork to take advantage of the unique properties of each medium. For example, an artist might use acrylics for the base layers and background, benefiting from their durability and vibrant colors, and then use tempera for the finer details and highlights, taking advantage of its smooth finish and ease of blending.
This hybrid approach allows artists to create complex, multi-dimensional artworks that would be difficult to achieve with a single type of paint. The combination of acrylics and tempera can result in a piece that has both the boldness and durability of acrylics and the delicate, refined details of tempera.
Conclusion
In summary, acrylic and tempera paints each have their own set of characteristics that make them suitable for different types of artwork. Acrylics offer versatility, durability, and vibrant colors, making them ideal for a wide range of techniques and surfaces. Tempera, with its quick-drying properties and matte finish, is well-suited for detailed and traditional works. By understanding the differences between these two mediums, artists can make informed choices about which to use—or even combine them—to achieve their desired artistic effects.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I mix acrylic and tempera paints together? A: While it is possible to mix acrylic and tempera paints, the results can be unpredictable. The different binders and drying times may affect the stability and appearance of the mixed paint. It’s generally recommended to use each medium separately or in layers rather than mixing them directly.
Q: Which type of paint is better for beginners? A: Both acrylic and tempera paints are suitable for beginners, but acrylics are often recommended due to their versatility and ease of use. Acrylics are more forgiving and can be used on a variety of surfaces, making them a good choice for those just starting out.
Q: How do I clean brushes used with acrylic and tempera paints? A: Brushes used with acrylic paint should be cleaned with water immediately after use, as acrylics dry quickly and can harden on the bristles. For tempera paint, brushes can also be cleaned with water, but since tempera is water-soluble, it is generally easier to clean than acrylics.
Q: Can I varnish a tempera painting? A: Yes, you can varnish a tempera painting to protect it and enhance its appearance. However, it’s important to use a varnish that is compatible with tempera paint and to apply it carefully to avoid cracking or other damage.
Q: Are there any health concerns associated with using acrylic or tempera paints? A: Both acrylic and tempera paints are generally safe to use, but it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area and avoid ingesting or inhaling the paints. Some acrylic paints may contain harmful chemicals, so it’s a good idea to check the label and use them responsibly. Tempera paints, especially those made with egg yolk, should be handled with care to avoid spoilage and contamination.