Wet media can be more difficult to use than dry media, but it is worth persevering as you can create striking work with good visual impact. Practice using paint and ink, to help refine and improve your technique.
A simple way to experiment with wet media is to try out painting on different surfaces.
Paint and ink
There are many types of paints and inks which all have different properties.
Watercolour
Watercolour is available in solid blocks or tubes. It can be quick to use and a small watercolour set is very easy to work with on location.
The paint is transparent and works best on light paper. Colours can be lightened by adding water rather than adding white.
Ink
Ink comes as a liquid and has many of the same properties as watercolour. It is good for creating images with vibrant colours.
Waterproof and bleachable versions are available.
Techniques
Use watercolour or ink as a wash all across your paper to create a coloured background.
Try using sticks, twigs or other objects instead of a brush
Use pens to draw over watercolour or liquid ink to create definite marks or precise detail.
Use masking fluid, oil pastel, crayon or gum arabic as a resist
Brush or draw sterilising fluid onto bleachable ink to lift off colour and create interesting effects
Create abstract patterns by dripping watercolour or ink into a tray of water before quickly putting your paper face down in the tray.
