21.7.14

The Job Of An Airbrushing Artist

By Paulette Mason


A tool called an airbrush was first invented in the 1890s and it has come a long way since then. It is used today to create stunningly realistic art with many different avenues of expression. An airbrushing artist has to master some difficult techniques to produce these effects. They spray dyes, inks or paints onto many different types of surfaces, often using a freehand process.

In the early years, the airbrush was used extensively for photographic retouching. However, this changed when exceptional computer graphic programs came onto the scene. Today a craze for customizing items has injected new vigor into this art form and you name it, people want it to be airbrushed.

Today, artists use many different varieties of the same basic tool. However, the principle by which they all work is the same. This tool atomizes paint and sends it toward a surface. An aerosol can also do this but an airbrush does not put out as much paint and is used for more detailed fine work. It has a reservoir for paint and a source of compressed air. The compressed air atomizes the paint and sprays out fine droplets.

Artists who have mastered the techniques for using this tool can create the most stunning effects. In order to do this they have to understand exactly how much pressure to apply to the trigger, at what distance to hold the tool from the surface and many other things. The process of learning all of these techniques takes time and patience. Learning often take place alongside someone who already has experience.

There are numerous avenues today for specialization. Some of these artists still work on canvas and create very realistic portraits and other works. However, fields as diverse as the automotive industry and the world of cosmetology also benefit from use of the airbrush. A very popular application is creating graphics on motorbikes, cars, trucks and even on helmets and license plates.

Custom designs are also created on items of clothing and accessories. T-shirts, boots, helmets and even handbags can be decorated with a design or a logo. Murals can be sprayed onto walls. Cosmetology is another industry where airbrushing is used extensively.

When looking for an artist to do some custom work, it is important to view a portfolio of work successfully completed. Artists can work from designs or photos they are given. However, if clients do not know exactly what they want, browsing through a portfolio can help and artists are also happy to give ideas and suggestions.

Creativity and originality as well as a steady hand are essential to producing good work. Success is often dependent on the time and effort spent in practicing and acquiring skills, sometimes alongside an experienced mentor. The incredibly detailed and realistic images these artists create have elevated the status of this art form and given it the popularity it enjoys today.




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