Airbrush Art

What Is Airbrush Art

Just as you might guess, airbrush art is created using paint and a compressor which “blows” the paint onto the surface. Because of the use of air, the paint can be extremely thin and transparent, or it can be very thick and solid in color. If you’ve ever seen a motorcycle with a custom paintjob on the gas tank, you’ve seen an example of airbrush art.

What Do You Need to Airbrush

Other than the surface that you wish to create your airbrush art on, you will need some basic tools.

• An Airbrush. Airbrushes look kind of like metal pens, and they have heads that control the thickness of the stream. On some models, the head can be swapped so that the artist can use the same airbrush for fine, medium, or thick. On the bottom of the brush is a nub that allows for the attachment of the paint that is being used.
• Airbrush Compressor. The compressor is what provides the air to move the paint.
• Paint. Depending on the kind of art you’re creating, you may want to use water-based paint or solvent-based paint.
• Cleaning Tools. Like any other kind of brush, airbrushes need to be cleaned on a regular basis.
• Optional Accessories. In addition to the list above, some artists like to have some other accessories to help them with their art. These items include projectors, spray booths, paint stands, stencils, and airbrush holders.

One thing that most airbrush artists and websites agree on is that you do not have to be an artist in order to learn how to airbrush. While it doesn’t hurt, you can still create basic – and attractive – airbrush art by using stencils and projectors if you’re willing to spend the time practicing.

Where To Learn To Airbrush

There are many sources to learn how to airbrush.

• Art Supply Stores – both large and small sometimes offer lessons, or they can give you a lead on other local places to look if you’re interested in classroom-based learning.
• Airbrush Magazines – besides being a great source for information about products and skills, these magazines also contain numerous offers for DVDs that can teach you to airbrush at home.
• Websites – like any other art form, there are websites offering free advice to beginners. Two such websites are HowToAirbrush.com and Airhead Air Brush. HowToAirbrush.com is published by Airbrush Artist Magazine and Airbrush Technique Magazine. It provides free basic airbrush lessons, techniques, and information. Airhead Air Brush is published by a company that sells projectors and other airbrush materials. They provide basic lessons to help encourage others to learn the ins and outs of airbrushing.

Galleries of Airbrush Art

Depending on the type of art you’re looking for, there are any number of sites dedicated to the art. Search for whatever type of art you’re interested in – many artists have their own websites with plenty of sample art work and art for sale. However, if you want to view galleries that have multiple artists together, you can check out:

• Airbrush.com. They have a free gallery with several different artists and their work.
• Airbrush Technique. This website is more than just a gallery, but they have a section where members can create their own galleries and post their own work.

Airbrush art is gaining popularity, and with the number of things that can be airbrushed, it’s no wonder! If you’re interested in airbrushing, now is a great time to get started.