CultureAugust 27, 2026

underpainting

UN-der-payn-ting

Definition

A technique in painting involving an initial layer of color or monochrome used to establish the structure, values, and composition of a work before final layers are added.

Etymology

The word is a compound of the prefix 'under-' and the noun 'painting,' appearing in artistic contexts in the late 19th century to describe the preliminary stage of an oil painting.

In the news

Sara Alves uses underpainting in her landscape project to create a base of bright colors, which are then layered upon to add depth and complexity to her work.

FMCG Brand Coração Do Vale Redefines Luxury Gifting By Unveiling Its Arts Edition at Gifts World Expo 2026

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