What is Gouache? (Free Lesson)

Did you know the word gouache comes from the Italian Guazzo, whose original meaning was mud? Did you know that gouache has more pigment than watercolor? Gouache, also referred to as opaque watercolor, has a rich history and unique working properties that make it a truly original artists material. Join Royal Talens Art Education Director, Jeff Olson, for an inspiring journey exploring the history, features, and applications of gouache and how you can incorporate it into your artistic practice.

Watch: Unveiling the World of Gouache with Jeff Olson

Summary:

Welcome to the vibrant world of gouache, a medium that has captivated artists for centuries with its rich history and unique properties. Today, we are diving into the depths of gouache with none other than Jeff Olson, a beloved art educator known for his engaging and insightful presentations. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, Jeff’s expertise will guide you through the nuances of this fascinating medium.

A Historical Journey

Gouache, often referred to as opaque watercolor, has a storied past that dates back to ancient times. Its origins can be traced to ancient Greek terracotta paintings and Persian Miniatures, where its ability to produce intricate details made it a preferred choice for artists. Fast forward to the Renaissance, and artists like Albrecht Dürer began combining gouache with watercolor to create stunning botanical illustrations.

The 18th century marked the heyday of gouache, especially in France, where it was often paired with pastel. This combination allowed artists to create vibrant and detailed portraits, a technique that persists even today. As we moved into the 19th and 20th centuries, gouache found its place in the palettes of impressionists and designers, valued for its versatility and vibrant colors.

The Composition of Gouache

At its core, gouache is composed of pigment and binder, similar to watercolor, but in different ratios. This unique composition gives gouache its distinctive opacity and vibrant color. The pigments used in gouache are sourced from a variety of origins, including organic, inorganic, and synthetic sources. This diversity in pigment sources allows for a wide range of colors and effects.

Gum arabic and dextrin are the primary binders used in gouache, each contributing to the medium’s specific working properties. These binders not only help suspend the pigment but also ensure the paint adheres well to the surface, making gouache a versatile choice for artists.

Painting with gouach - Poppy Balser PleinAir Salon winner
Poppy Balser, “Evening Light on Water and Stone,” Gouache on paper, 8×10 inches; winner in the PleinAir Salon (September 2024, Best Plein Air Watercolor & Gouache), www.poppybalser.com
“I chose to use gouache on watercolor board,” Poppy said. “That allowed me to start with the dark background and shaded parts of the water. From there I started to add the rocks in the stream and the warm colors of the water. I painted the light golden and reddish-brown parts of the water quite transparently, to help imitate the sense of light shining through the water. Then I dragged the blue of the sky across afterward to suggest the ripples in the moving water.”

Working with Gouache

One of the most attractive features of gouache is its convenience. Available in tubes and pans, gouache is easy to transport and use, requiring only water to activate. Its quick drying time makes it ideal for artists who want to work rapidly or layer colors efficiently.

Gouache’s opacity allows artists to layer light over dark, a technique not possible with traditional watercolor. However, artists should be aware of the color shift that occurs as gouache dries, with light colors becoming darker and dark colors becoming lighter. This characteristic requires artists to adjust their approach to color mixing and application.

Tips for Success

  • Start Small: Begin with small compositions to get a feel for the medium before tackling larger projects.
  • Limit Your Palette: A limited color palette encourages creativity and allows for easier color mixing.
  • Use Big Strokes: Block in colors with large brushes to establish the composition before adding details.
  • Consider Your Values: Be mindful of the color shift and exaggerate values to achieve the desired effect.
  • Layering: Allow each layer to dry before applying the next for cleaner, crisper results.

Exploring Acrylic Gouache

Acrylic gouache offers artists the best of both worlds: the matte finish of traditional gouache with the permanence of acrylics. Using an acrylic polymer emulsion as its binder, acrylic gouache is waterproof once dry, allowing for more flexibility in layering and surface choice.

While it shares some characteristics with traditional gouache, acrylic gouache’s unique properties make it a valuable addition to any artist’s toolkit, especially for those who appreciate the look of gouache but desire the durability of acrylics.

Conclusion

Gouache is a versatile and rewarding medium that offers endless possibilities for artistic expression. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history or its modern applications, gouache provides a unique blend of opacity, vibrancy, and convenience. With Jeff Olson’s guidance in this Art School Live presentation (above), you’re now equipped with the knowledge to explore this medium and incorporate it into your own artistic practice.

Stay tuned for more insights and demonstrations as we continue to explore the world of art!

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