Canvas and painting paper are two of the most common surfaces used for creating artworks with various painting and drawing mediums. Each has its unique characteristics and suitability for different artistic purposes. Here are the uses of canvas and painting paper in art:

Canvas:

1. Acrylic Painting: Canvas is often the preferred surface for acrylic painting. Its texture and durability make it ideal for the thick consistency and vibrant colors of acrylic paints. Artists can apply multiple layers and achieve a range of effects.

2. Oil Painting: Canvas is the traditional surface for oil painting. It is designed to withstand the solvents and drying time associated with oil paints. The canvas texture enhances the depth and visual interest of oil paintings.

3. Texture Creation: Canvas can add texture to a painting. Depending on the canvas type (smooth or textured), artists can achieve different surface effects, such as smooth, impasto, or even an aged appearance.

4. Large-Scale Art: Canvas is suitable for large-scale artworks due to its strength and ability to accommodate large dimensions. It’s often used for mural-sized paintings and statement pieces.

5. Stretching and Framing: Canvas can be stretched over wooden stretcher bars and framed, providing a traditional and elegant presentation for artworks.

6. Mixed Media: Artists often combine acrylics, oils, and various media on canvas to create mixed-media artworks with diverse textures and effects.

Painting Paper:

1. Watercolor Painting: High-quality watercolor paper is essential for watercolor painting. It’s designed to handle the delicate, transparent nature of watercolor pigments and wet washes.

2. Gouache Painting: Painting paper is used for gouache, which is a water-based medium similar to watercolor but with opaque qualities. The paper is selected based on the desired texture and weight.

3. Drawing: Painting paper, especially heavyweight paper, is used for drawing with graphite, charcoal, colored pencils, and pastels. The tooth (surface texture) of the paper varies for different drawing media.

4. Printmaking: Various printmaking techniques, such as etching, lithography, and silkscreen, utilize painting paper as the surface for creating prints. The paper’s quality and thickness are chosen based on the specific printmaking process.

5. Illustration: Many illustrators work on painting paper for their illustrations, whether they are created with markers, ink, or colored pencils. The paper’s weight and texture are chosen to suit the intended style.

6. Sketching: Painting paper can be used for sketching with various media, from quick pencil sketches to more elaborate ink or pastel studies.

7. Studies and Practice: Artists use painting paper for studies, practice, and experimentation before committing to a final artwork on canvas or other surfaces.