Impasto
Impasto
August 10, 2015
Impasto is an Italian term for thickly applied paint. Literally it means “paste”. Many artists employ this technique to add interest and texture to their works. Thick brushwork is beautiful but creates challenges for the conservator. Dirt and / or varnish can collect or pool in crevices and raised areas which makes cleaning more challenging and take much longer than cleaning a smooth paint surface. Also the tips of the cured paint can become brittle and extra care must be taken to not snag or snap off the raised ends of the strokes during any of the processes that might be undertaken during treatment of the painting.