IN-DEPTH: PAINTING WITH Inks

Keen to try a new medium? SUZY FASHT explores exciting ways to draw and paint with inks, including three exercises that show its true creative possibilities

- SUZY FASHT

INKS

Inks are transparent and can be used as a drawing or painting medium. They have a uniquely transparent quality and dry with a satin sheen. They differ from watercolour in that once dry, they are insoluble.

Drawing inks are extremely transparent and brilliant in colour but are made with dyes so are not lightfast. An alternative is acrylic inks, which are slightly thicker, still transparent and insoluble, but are made with pigment so are less likely to fade; they can be thinned with water. All inks can be mixed like paint to create new colours. Black Indian ink is extremely strong and is often used with a dipping pen for fine drawing because, when dry it is waterproof, transparent colour can then be washed over it without altering the drawing. Indian ink can also be diluted and worked with a brush to create tonal work or used for tonal underpainting. If the work is to last, look out for inks made with pigment rather than dyes.

PENS AND BRUSHES

Pen holders and drawing nibs are inexpensive. Nibs come in a variety of widths to create a varying thickness of lines. Take the nib out of the holder to wash it and avoid letting ink dry on the nib as it can lessen the flow. Avoid getting the holder too wet as the wood will crack.

Pens can be cut from thin or thick bamboo (easier when the wood is green) and produce some great lines. They are also really cheap to buy.

I tend to use round Chinese brushes mostly, or a square hake for washes – I use them on their side for depicting grass as they hold a lot of water. You’ll notice the ink may stain the hairs, but this shouldn’t make any difference to the flow. My Jackson’s Raven mop brush, which I also use for watercolour painting, is my new favourite – the quality is excellent for a synthetic brush and my conscience is squirrel free!