As an artist, you know that there are many elements that make up a great piece of art. The right color, composition, and subject matter are all critical components that can make or break your creation. However, one element that is often overlooked is texture. Texture can add a new layer of depth to your artwork, giving it an extra level of interest that can capture the viewer’s imagination. In this post, we’ll explore the ways that textures can add to your artwork and how to experiment with different surfaces to create beautiful works of art.

What is texture and why is it important?

Texture is the surface quality of a material. It can be rough or smooth, nubby or silky, matte or glossy. Texture adds a tactile element to a piece of art, which can help to bring it to life in a way that color and composition alone cannot. Texture also creates contrast, which can add visual interest and make the piece more dynamic.

Finding inspiration for texture

One great way to explore texture is to look for inspiration in the world around you. Take a walk through nature and examine the different surfaces you see - the rough texture of bark, the smoothness of a river rock, the glossy surface of a berry. You can also find inspiration in man-made objects: the cracked surface of a brick wall, the raised texture of a piece of lace, or the bumpy texture of a tire. The possibilities are endless!

Photo of a textured tree bark.

Experimenting on different surfaces

Once you have found inspiration for texture, it’s time to experiment with different surfaces. You can add texture to your artwork by working on different surfaces such as canvas, paper, wood, metal, and fabric. Each of these surfaces can add a different level of texture to your artwork, depending on how you use them.

Canvas is a common choice for painters, and many artists love the slightly nubby texture that it provides. You can also experiment with applying different textures to the surface of the canvas. For example, you can mix sand or other gritty substances into your paint to create a rough texture.

Paper is also a versatile surface for adding texture. Rough watercolor paper can add a beautiful texture to your paintings, while smooth paper is perfect for drawing or printing techniques.

Wood, metal, and fabric are all great surfaces for adding texture. Wood has a natural grain that can be emphasized with different stains and finishes, while metal can be hammered, polished, or stamped to create interesting textures. Fabric can be used to add a tactile element to your artwork, adding a new level of interest.

Photo of a canvas painting with visible brushstrokes and texture.

Explore Texture with Mixed Media

If you’re looking for new ways to experiment with texture, consider exploring mixed media techniques. Mixed media involves using a variety of materials to create a single artwork. You can combine paint, ink, collage elements, and other materials to create layers of texture and interest.

There are many great textures you can add to artwork using mixed media, including sandpaper, lace, string, and tissue paper. Each of these materials has a unique texture that can be used to create interesting effects in your artwork.

X Highlight: If you’re interested in learning more about mixed media techniques, consider taking a class or finding tutorials online. There are many great resources out there for artists who want to explore this exciting technique.

Photo of a mixed media artwork made of different materials, from tissue paper, string and sandpaper.

Play with Textures and Light

Finally, one great way to experiment with texture is to use lighting to highlight different surface qualities. For example, use a directional light source to create shadows and highlights, which can help to accentuate the different textures in your artwork.

This technique works particularly well with metal and wood, which can create beautiful reflections and shadows when lit from different angles. Experiment with different lighting setups to see what works best for your artwork.

Photo of a wooden surface with directional light casting shadows and reflections.

Conclusion

Texture is a powerful element that can add depth, character, and interest to your artwork. By exploring different surfaces, mixed media techniques, and lighting setups, you can add a new layer of depth to your artwork that will capture the imagination of your viewers. Remember to keep experimenting with different textures to find your unique style and create art that truly stands out.

Graphic representation of an artist experimenting with different textures on various surfaces.