What do we know about gouache? It can produce broad colour notes and atmospheric effects using thin washes, whilst more opaque applications can produce complex, naturalistic textures and refined details. For those getting started with landscape painting, it’s a little more forgiving than purely working in watercolour and is simpler to set up than oils. Although well-suited to studio paintings – like this demonstration – gouache is also an excellent choice for en plein air painting. The necessary equipment is portable, lightweight and easy to clean up when finished, which is extremely handy when painting outside.
Gouache is best used for smaller paintings. The opacity and quick drying