Märkämaalauksia

Märkämaalauksia is a Finnish term that translates to "wet-on-wet painting." This artistic technique involves applying wet paint onto a surface that is already wet with another layer of paint. The primary characteristic of this method is the blending and softening of colors as they interact on the wet surface. Instead of sharp, distinct lines, wet-on-wet painting often produces soft edges, subtle transitions, and a luminous quality.

The technique is commonly associated with watercolor painting, where it allows for spontaneous and flowing effects, but it can also be employed in oil and acrylic mediums. In watercolor, the paper is typically moistened with clean water or diluted paint before the subsequent colors are applied. This creates a diffusion effect where the pigments spread outwards, creating delicate washes and atmospheric qualities. Artists often use this method to achieve skies, water, mist, or other elements where a sense of softness and blending is desired.

While wet-on-wet can lead to unpredictable results, skilled artists can control the flow of the paint to a certain extent by managing the amount of water on the surface and the pigment density. It is a technique that encourages a fluid and intuitive approach to painting, often embracing happy accidents and the natural behavior of the medium. The resulting artworks can possess a dreamlike or ethereal appearance due to the seamless integration of colors.