Yes, you can do watercolour painting on canvas, but it requires preparing the canvas with a special ground to mimic the properties of watercolour paper. Without this preparation, watercolour paint will not absorb properly and will bead up on the canvas surface.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Why Canvas Isn't Ideal for Watercolour Directly
- Absorption Issues: Traditional canvas is designed for oil and acrylic paints. It's often primed with gesso, which creates a smooth, non-absorbent surface. Watercolour needs a surface that allows the paint to sink in and bind. Without this, the paint sits on top and can be easily wiped away.
- Lack of Texture: While canvas has some texture, it's different from the tooth of watercolour paper. Watercolour paper has a textured surface that allows the pigment to settle into the valleys, creating depth and visual interest.
The Solution: Watercolour Ground
To make canvas suitable for watercolours, you need to apply a watercolour ground. This is a specially formulated primer that creates a porous, absorbent surface similar to watercolour paper.
- What it does: Watercolour ground transforms the canvas into a surface that watercolour paint can properly adhere to. It allows the paint to be absorbed, blending becomes easier, and the paint won't just sit on the surface.
- Application: Apply the watercolour ground according to the manufacturer's instructions. Usually, this involves applying several thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Pros and Cons of Watercolour on Canvas
| Feature | Watercolour on Canvas (with Ground) | Watercolour on Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Higher (less prone to tearing) | Lower |
| Surface Prep | Required (Watercolour Ground) | Minimal |
| Portability | Can be stretched on a frame | More portable |
| Texture | Can be varied with the ground | More natural feeling |
| Re-wetting | Paint can re-activate, requiring fixatives. | More predictable |
Tips for Watercolour Painting on Canvas
- Choose the Right Ground: Experiment with different brands of watercolour ground to find one that suits your style and preferences.
- Apply Multiple Coats: Applying several thin coats of ground is better than one thick coat.
- Seal the Finished Painting: Consider sealing your finished watercolour painting with a fixative or varnish specifically designed for watercolour on canvas to protect it from moisture and UV damage. This is especially important because watercolours can re-activate if they get wet.
In conclusion, while traditional watercolour painting is typically done on paper, you can successfully paint with watercolours on canvas by using a watercolour ground to prepare the surface. This opens up new possibilities for durability and display, but it's important to understand the differences in technique and materials.
