Exploration of Synthetic Iron Oxides, Calcium Carbonate, and Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) for Achieving Texture and Tonal Values in Contemporary Painting
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.68050/JAMS.2026.624Keywords:
Contemporary painting, calcium carbonate, synthetic iron oxides, polyvinyl acetate, texture, tonal values, alternative materials, Benin City.Abstract
Contemporary painting increasingly embraces material experimentation to expand artistic expression beyond conventional media. This study explored the creative potential of combining calcium carbonate, synthetic iron oxides, and polyvinyl acetate (PVA) as an alternative painting medium for achieving distinctive textures and tonal values. An experimental studio-based qualitative research design was adopted. Seven artworks were produced using different formulations of the materials, while semi-structured interviews were conducted with twelve purposively selected paint production stakeholders in Benin City, Edo State. Interview data were analysed using manual thematic analysis alongside visual examination of the completed artworks. The findings revealed that calcium carbonate enhanced surface texture and paint body, synthetic iron oxides generated rich earthy tonal variations, and PVA provided effective adhesion and structural stability. The integrated medium produced expressive textural effects and tonal depth that extended beyond conventional painting materials. The study concludes that the formulation offers a viable alternative painting medium capable of promoting material innovation and enriching contemporary artistic practice.
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Articles published in the Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Studies (JAMS) are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0), unless otherwise stated. Authors retain copyright of their work and grant JAMS the right of first publication.
