In the diverse world of painting, artists are always on the lookout for mediums that can enhance their creativity and expression. At least I know I am…!
While oil, acrylic, and watercolor dominate the scene, there's a hidden gem that deserves more attention: casein paint. Derived from milk protein, casein offers a unique set of advantages that can elevate an artist's work in unexpected ways. Here's why you should consider adding casein to your artistic toolkit and if you are an art collector, you may want to consider looking for works created in Casein to enhance your collection in an eco-friendly manner.
Morning at Marshalls Creek. 7” x 5” Casein on wood panel. Painted en Plein Air. Work in progress…
Versatility
Casein paint is known for its versatility. It can mimic the effects of both watercolor and gouache, and with the right application, it can even resemble the richness of oil paints. This adaptability allows artists to experiment with different styles and techniques within a single medium, offering a seamless transition between transparent washes and opaque layers.
Personally, I am new to this medium, so I have yet to scratch the surface of Casein’s versatility. One of my “go-to” resources for learning about Casein and how it can work with other mediums like watercolor, is James Gurney’s content. You can easily search for him by name on YouTube, Amazon or by using your favorite browser-based search engine.
Once Casein has dried fully it will not be reactivated with water so you can apply other mediums, like watercolor, colored pencil, pastel, etc., on top of the existing painting. It's also absorbent, making it receptive to subsequent layers of oil paint.
Fast Drying Time
One of the standout features of casein paint is its fast drying time. Unlike oils that can take days or even weeks to dry completely, casein dries quickly, allowing artists to work at a faster pace. This is particularly beneficial for those who prefer to work in layers, as they can apply subsequent coats without lengthy waiting periods.
I really enjoy this quality when painting en Plein air because if you wait a few moments after painting a scene you can hike back to your car, or next destination and not have to worry about smudging a wet painting (like you do when working with oil paints).
Archival Quality and Durability
Casein forms a strong, durable paint film once it dries. This results in artwork that stands the test of time, resisting yellowing and deterioration. The archival quality of casein makes it a preferred choice for artists who want their work to remain vibrant and intact for years to come.
Matte Finish
Artists who prefer a matte finish will appreciate casein's natural sheen. The dry paint has a velvety, non-reflective surface that enhances the viewing experience, particularly under various lighting conditions. This quality makes it ideal for illustrations, fine art, and commercial work where a glare-free presentation is desired.
If you want a shinier finish to your work you can simply use a varnish that matches your desired level of shine.
Excellent Adhesion
Casein adheres well to a variety of surfaces, including paper, canvas, wood, and even glass. This excellent adhesion opens up a world of possibilities for mixed-media artists who like to incorporate diverse materials into their work. The strong binding properties of casein ensure that it remains firmly attached to the substrate.
This is one of my favorite qualities of Casein. I love that I can use the wood panels I’ve become accustomed to using with my smaller oil paintings. I hope to experiment with some additional surfaces but this quality was a key determining factor in my decision to begin using the medium.
Eco-Friendly
For environmentally conscious artists, casein is an eco-friendly option. Made from milk protein, it is biodegradable and non-toxic. This contrasts with some synthetic paints that may contain harmful chemicals. Using casein can be a step towards a more sustainable and health-conscious art practice.
Also, since it is water-soluble there is no need to harsh chemical solvents in studio and out in the field while painting en Plein air.
Some other small Casein paintings I’ve worked on recently…
Rich, Vibrant Colors
Casein paints are renowned for their rich, vibrant colors. The pigmentation is intense, allowing for brilliant hues and deep, resonant tones. Artists can achieve a broad spectrum of color effects, from subtle gradients to bold, striking contrasts.
The color mixing process and the ordering rules for application different colors and values is forgiving. It seems you can approach many different effects from different approaches. Thus far I’ve used a limited pallets to mix a multitude of colors. Also I’ve worked on paintings by applying thin layer, upon thin layer (much like you would in water color and tempura) I’ve experimented with thicker paint applications as well. They all seem to work well and anyone who has past experience in other mediums can confidently adapt to the use of Casein after a short period of practice without much fuss.
Historical Significance
Casein has a rich historical background, used by artists for centuries. It was a favorite among ancient Egyptian, Byzantine, and even early 20th-century artists. By incorporating casein into your work, you are connecting with a tradition that has stood the test of time, lending a classical touch to your modern creations.
I recently learned that Casein paint has been used in theatrical set painting as well. So if you are a theater-goer and enjoy the artwork within the sets you see in the background there is a fair chance that you have witnessed many of the wonderful qualities of Casein.
Also Casein has played a role on some really famous paintings like Edvard Munch's, The Scream 1893. This famous painting was created using oil pastel and casein on cardboard.
Conclusion
Casein paint is more than just an alternative to the more commonly used mediums; it is a powerful tool that offers unique advantages. Its versatility, durability, and eco-friendly nature make it a compelling choice for contemporary artists. Whether you're looking to experiment with new techniques, create durable artwork, or embrace a more sustainable practice, casein paint is a worthy addition to your palette. Embrace the potential of this remarkable medium and discover the artistic heights you can achieve with casein.
Also, if you are a collector who wishes to weigh the ecological impact of art you purchase you may want to take a closer look at paintings made with Casein as you search for the next piece you add to your collection.
Cheers & thanks for hearing me out.
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