Painting mediums are the materials artists use to create their artwork. Common mediums include oil paint, acrylic paint, and watercolor. Each medium has unique properties that affect how the paint behaves, dries, and looks on the canvas. For example, oil paint takes longer to dry, allowing artists to blend colors smoothly, while acrylic paint dries quickly and can be thinned with water. Artists often choose their medium based on the desired effect and technique. Watercolor is known for its transparency and fluidity, making it ideal for soft washes and delicate details. Understanding different painting mediums helps artists express their creativity in various ways.