To make the comparison, I have used a standard 300gsm "not surfaced" paper and the following paints:
- W&N Cotman UltraMarine - normally very flat and uniform,
- W&N Artists French UltraMarine - naturally granulates providing an artistically uneven wash
I'm very impressed with the results. Once the granulation medium is added, it's very difficult to tell the difference between the Cotman and the Artists UltraMarines. I think the granulation medium adds depth and variety to the Cotman paint, and will be very useful when a flat wash is not required.
This photo shows the paints whilst still wet:
And this one shows the paints now dry:
- W&N Cotman Turquoise - normally flat and uniform,
- W&N Cotman Cerulean - normally flat and uniform,
- W&N Cotman Alirizan Crimson - normally flat and uniform,
- Derwent Aquafine Sap Green - naturally granulates providing an artistically uneven wash
- W&N Cotman Burnt Umber - normally flat and uniform,
- W&N Artists Burnt Umber - naturally granulates providing an artistically uneven wash
Stephie
Interesting that it improves Cotman colours for granulation.
ReplyDeleteI keep meaning to get some of this granulation liquid. I think you have just given me more incentive. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteHi Tessa and Laura, thanks for your thoughts, I'm sorry it's taken me so long to reply, I've only just seen that you had commented.
ReplyDeleteI think it's well worth getting some granulation fluid if you have student grade paints and either can't afford or don't want to upgrade, or for experimental use. However adding granulation medium to student paints doesn't offer the fluidity you get with artist grade paints. In my opinion the artist grade ones still win hands down.