Gouache

Positive and Negative Attributes of Gouache

Positive Attributes:

• Bright Colors – The colors in gouache are really bold and vibrant, which makes the painting stand out.

• Good Coverage – You can layer colors easily and fix mistakes.

• Matte Finish – It dries with a nice, flat look, which makes it great for illustrations.

• Blends Well – You can mix and blend colors smoothly, kind of like watercolor but more controlled.

Negative Attributes:

• Reactivates with Water – If you add water or try to layer too much, the paint underneath can lift up.

• Can Crack – If it’s too thick, it might crack when it dries.

• Delicate Surface – The dried paint can smudge or get scratched easily.

Will You Use Gouache Again?

Yes, I would use gouache again. It’s fun to work with, and I like how bold the colors are. I think it would be great for painting still life objects or simple landscapes because of how smooth and bright it looks. I’d also want to experiment more with layering and details to improve my technique.

Rating of Final Painting (1-10)

I would give my painting a 9/10.

Why?
What Worked Well: The pear looks realistic with good color blending, and the shadow adds depth. The blue background contrasts nicely with the green. There is also a lot of small details.
What Could Be Better: Some areas could be blended more smoothly. The shadow could also be a little more realistic.

Overall, I’m happy with it, but I know I can improve with more practice!