Oil paint

Oil paint is a type of slow-drying paint that consists of particles of pigment suspended in a drying oil, commonly linseed oil. The viscosity of the paint may be modified by the addition of a solvent such as turpentine or white spirit, and varnish may be added to increase the glossiness of the dried oil paint film.

History

Oil paint has been used in Europe since the 12th century for simple decoration, but was not widely adopted as an artistic medium until the early 15th century. Common modern applications of oil paint are in finishing and protection of wood in buildings and exposed metal structures such as ships and bridges.

Composition

The basic components of oil paint are pigment, binder, and solvent. The pigment, or colored powder, is mixed with the binder, or oil, to form a stiff paste. A solvent, or thinner, is then added to make the paste more fluid.

Pigment

The pigment in oil paint is typically made from finely ground minerals, such as lead, zinc, and iron. These minerals are often heated to high temperatures to change their color.

Binder

The binder in oil paint is typically made from a drying oil, such as linseed oil. This oil dries slowly, allowing the artist to work with the paint for several days, and also imparts a characteristic glossy finish to the dried paint.

Solvent

The solvent in oil paint is typically a volatile substance that evaporates quickly, such as turpentine or white spirit. This solvent thins the paint, making it easier to apply, and then evaporates to leave behind a film of pigment and binder.

Techniques

Oil paint is prized by artists for its versatility and range of effects. It can be applied in thin transparent layers to create a luminous effect, or in thick layers to create a textured surface. It can also be mixed with other media, such as acrylic paint, to create unique effects.

Health and safety

Oil paint can be hazardous to the health if not used properly. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and prolonged exposure to the fumes can lead to respiratory problems. It is also flammable, and should be used in a well-ventilated area away from open flames.

See also

• Acrylic paint
• Watercolor paint
• Encaustic painting
• Tempera