Jacob Lawrence primarily used tempera paint which he applied to paper board for his artworks.
Jacob Lawrence's Artistic Mediums and Techniques
Jacob Lawrence, an influential American artist celebrated for chronicling Black life in America through his paintings, had a distinctive approach to his materials. He was known for making his own tempera paint, a crucial aspect of his artistic process. This self-made tempera was then consistently applied to paper board, forming the basis of his powerful visual narratives.
This combination of medium and support contributed significantly to the iconic style seen in his works, which often featured bold colors, flattened forms, and a strong graphic quality, ideal for conveying complex stories in a direct and impactful manner.
The Significance of Tempera Paint
- Customization: By making his own tempera, Lawrence had precise control over the consistency, pigment load, and overall quality of his paint, tailoring it to his specific artistic needs and vision.
- Characteristics: Tempera is a fast-drying, permanent medium known for its luminous colors and crisp details. It allows for the creation of precise lines and vibrant, matte surfaces, distinguishing it from oil or acrylic paints.
- Durability: Once dry, tempera is very durable, contributing to the longevity of Lawrence's works, ensuring his vital stories could endure for future generations.
Why Paper Board as a Support?
Using paper board provided a stable and sturdy surface for Lawrence's extensive painting series. This material allowed him to work on a consistent scale and offered a smooth, rigid foundation that readily accepted the layers of tempera paint. Its accessibility and reliability made it an ideal choice for the prolific output characteristic of his career, especially for large-scale narrative series composed of many individual panels.
Jacob Lawrence's choice to meticulously prepare his own tempera paint and work on paper board underscores his dedication to his craft and his innovative spirit, allowing him to create a distinctive visual language that remains compelling and relevant.
