Fixative application

Definition

Fixative application refers to the process of using a chemical spray or solution to preserve a work of art, typically a drawing or painting, by stabilizing the surface materials and preventing smudging or fading. This technique is essential in the development of a painting from start to finish, as it helps maintain the integrity of the artwork during the layering process and protects it from environmental damage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fixatives come in different types, including workable fixatives that allow for additional layering and final fixatives that are used on completed works.
2. The application of fixative is often done in light, even sprays to avoid drips and ensure an even coating over the artwork.
3. Fixatives can alter the appearance of certain materials, making them darker or changing their finish, so testing on a sample is advised before full application.
4. Using fixative can help prevent dust accumulation and protect artwork from UV light exposure, which may cause colors to fade over time.
5. The timing of fixative application is crucial; it should be applied after achieving desired effects but before final varnishing if applicable.

Review Questions

• How does the timing of fixative application affect the development of a painting?
  • The timing of fixative application is critical because it should be done after layers are built up to achieve desired effects while ensuring the artwork is protected. Applying fixative too early may hinder further layering, while waiting too long can risk damaging the piece. The right timing allows artists to preserve their work effectively without compromising future creative decisions.
• Discuss how different types of fixatives can impact the final appearance of a painting.
  • Different types of fixatives can significantly affect the final appearance of a painting by altering its texture and color depth. Workable fixatives maintain a surface suitable for additional layers without completely sealing off the existing materials, allowing for continued blending. In contrast, final fixatives provide a glossy or matte finish that can change how colors appear, potentially enhancing or dulling them depending on the formulation used.
• Evaluate the role of fixative application in preserving mixed media artworks and how it contributes to their longevity.
  • Fixative application plays a vital role in preserving mixed media artworks by stabilizing various materials and ensuring their longevity. As mixed media often incorporates diverse elements like charcoal, pastels, and even collage materials, each requiring different handling, fixative acts as a unifying protective layer. By preventing smudging and environmental damage from dust and moisture, it allows these artworks to maintain their visual impact over time while ensuring that the artist's intent remains intact.

Related terms

Varnish: A protective coating applied to a completed painting that enhances its appearance and provides a barrier against dust and moisture.

Medium: A substance used in art that alters the properties of paint or other materials, affecting texture, finish, and drying time.

Graphite:

A form of carbon used in drawing materials that can create a range of values and textures but may require fixative application to prevent smudging.