Understanding the Differences Between Oil Paint and Tempera Paint: A Comprehensive Guide
Artists have a plethora of tools and materials at their disposal when it comes to creating their masterpieces. Among these are oil paint and tempera paint, each with its unique properties and applications. This article will delve deeper into what distinguishes oil paint from tempera paint and explore their respective advantages and disadvantages in creating a work of art.
Introduction to Oil Paint and Tempera Paint
Both oil paint and tempera paint are types of artists' paints made from powdered pigments. However, the binder used and the resulting characteristics of each paint type differ significantly. Oil paint is traditionally made with linseed oil, safflower oil, or walnut oil, while tempera paint is typically made with egg yolk mixed with pigments. Understanding these differences is crucial for artists who wish to choose the most suitable medium for their work.
The Composition and Drying Process
Oil Paint: Oil paint is created by mixing pigments with an oil that slowly dries, usually linseed, flaxseed, or safflower oil. This results in a paint that dries slowly, forms a waterproof and flexible film, and allows for a wide range of techniques. It can be thinned with solvents such as turpentine or mineral spirits. Many brands offer premixed oil paint in art supply stores, making it convenient for artists to get started.
Tempera Paint: Tempra, or egg tempera, is made by mixing pigments with egg yolk and sometimes water. This creates a fast-drying, water-resistant paint that becomes inflexible when dry. Due to its nature, tempera provides a matte, opaque finish and is less flexible than oil paint.
Famous Artists and Examples
Oil Paint: Famous artists such as Johannes Vermeer and Rembrandt van Rijn have utilized oil paints to create some of the most enduring works of art in history. Their works are known for their rich color harmony, depth, and intricate brushwork. Here is an example of an oil painting (not explicitly shown but attributed to a well-known artist).
Tempera Paint: Renowned artists like Giotto di Bondone from the 13th-14th centuries and Andrew Wyeth from the 20th century have also used egg tempera. Giotto's work is characterized by its simplicity and clear lines, whereas Wyeth's paintings often depict rural landscapes and characters with a rich emotional depth. Here are some famous examples from these artists.
Below is a comparison of three paintings: the first by Giotto, the second by Andrew Wyeth, and the third one is the author's 2005 work, where only the figure was painted using Sennelier tempera paints.
Popular Forms of Tempera
Tempura: Tempura is a variant of tempera that uses egg yolk mixed with oil paint. This technique is particularly popular in Japanese art and is known for its fast-drying properties. It is frequently used in the preparation of illustrations and can produce outstanding works despite its limitations in color range.
Provincial Oratory - Buon fresco and Tempera
Provincial Oratory - Buon Fresco and Tempera: The Provincial Oratory, a fresco technique that employs egg tempera, offers a unique way to compare the differences between oil and tempera. This technique can be seen in the works of famous painters like Fra Angelico and Masaccio. These frescoes are created by applying pigment to wet plaster, and the use of tempera results in a unique texture and appearance. Here, we can observe how the use of tempera results in a matte, opaque surface, whereas oil paint will yield a hard, transparent film.
Key Differences and Usage
The primary differences between oil paint and tempera paint lie in their drying properties and visual appearance. Oil paint dries slowly and forms a hard, transparent film, allowing for layers and glazes that offer a sense of depth and richness. On the other hand, tempera dries quickly, forming a matte and opaque surface that is less flexible and does not allow for the same degree of layering.
Advantages of Oil Paint: Rich and varied color palette Supple and flexible Allows for layering and glazing techniques which can enhance the depth and luminosity of the artwork Easy to blend and mix
Advantages of Tempera: Fast-drying and water-resistant Easy to clean up Good for detail work and illustrations Less prone to cracking and flaking
Given the nature of their compositions, there are certain scenarios where one medium may be preferred over the other. For instance, traditional oil paintings often require longer drying times, making them less practical for quick sketches or illustrations. Conversely, tempera is ideal for work where a fast drying and water-resistant finish is required.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both oil paint and tempera paint serve the same basic function of applying colors to a canvas, they do so in very different ways. Oil paint provides artists with a wide range of techniques and a rich, durable finish, making it perfect for large-scale, detailed works of art. On the other hand, tempera, with its quick-drying nature and water-resistant properties, is better suited for smaller, detailed illustrations and works where speed is a factor.
Both mediums have their strengths and limitations, and the choice between the two depends on the intended purpose of the artwork and the techniques an artist wishes to employ. Whether you opt for the richness and layers of oil paint or the speed and flexibility of tempera, both offer unique artistic possibilities that can enhance your creative process.