Art options shown are geared for beginners or for experienced artists looking to try something new. Paint sample swatches (direct comparison of blue + white mixes) are shown plus recent sketches from Tuscany highlight in-the-field examples in action. See paper, paint and media comparisons and how they work. I share my tried-and-true favorite supplies I took with me to Tuscany last month, plus I tried some new things. Some I liked and some I didn't but I still had fun exploring. Concluding thoughts share the importance of continuing to explore as an artist regardless of your experience level.
CHOOSE QUALITY PAINT
When trying out a new media do buy high quality supplies (often labeled as 'artist grade' or 'professional quality') in a starter set or get a limited palette set (a few tubes of the primary colors). A cheap set of 'student grade' material won't give the best experience. This set might look more tempting because of the many colors and the low cost, but you will learn better and faster by mixing quality paint. 'Student grade' paint will make it extra hard to decide if a media switch is the right move because it will not perform. Filler and cheap pigment is used in these materials.
HOW TO TRY STUFF OUT
When exploring a new media, try dabs of paint and swipes as shown in the video. After a warm up blob session, try a simple landscapes or a small still life such as a pear. Many program videos here show good beginner exercises to try. Work small and do a number of studies. Try different paper or substrates. Here you can save some money, but again, the best results come from the best supplies. Se the supply list to strategize how to spend funds if your budget is limited.