To paint with eggs, specifically using egg tempera, you essentially mix egg yolk with pigment and water.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Prepare the Egg Yolk:
- Separate the egg yolk from the white. You only need the yolk.
- Place the yolk in a bowl.
- Add a small amount of water – a few teaspoons should suffice. This thins the yolk to a usable consistency.
2. Prepare Your Pigments:
- You can use powdered pigments available at art supply stores.
- Alternatively, you can experiment with natural pigments (as suggested in the provided reference, although specific examples aren't given). Be aware that natural pigments may behave differently.
3. Mix the Paint:
- Load your brush with a small amount of the prepared egg yolk mixture.
- Dip the brush into your chosen pigment.
- Mix the egg and pigment thoroughly on your palette until you achieve the desired color and consistency.
4. Apply the Paint:
- Apply the egg tempera paint to your chosen surface (typically a rigid panel, but paper can also be used).
- Egg tempera dries quickly, so work in thin layers.
- Because egg tempera dries to a matte finish, some artists apply a varnish.
Important Considerations:
- Freshness: Use fresh eggs for the best results.
- Proportions: The ratio of egg yolk to pigment can vary depending on the pigment's characteristics. Experiment to find the ideal balance.
- Technique: Egg tempera is typically applied in small, precise strokes.
- Cleaning: Clean your brushes and palette immediately after use with water. Dried egg tempera can be difficult to remove.
Egg tempera is a durable and luminous painting medium that has been used for centuries. It offers a unique aesthetic and handling properties different from oil or acrylic paints.
