Acrylic Painting Myth 2: Acrylic Paint is Non-Toxic
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Acrylic Painting Myth 2: Acrylic Paint is Non-Toxic
Lots of artists believe that acrylic paint, because it is water-based, is non-toxic. The Health Hazard Warning on the jar or tube says there are no known hazardous ingredients. Of course there are some paints that DO contain hazardous heavy metals in them like Cadmium, Cobalt or Chromium. The labels on those jars typically have a Health Warning that the materials can cause cancer.
You need to understand that paint manufacturers test the hazard level of the product at the end of a brush - not in contact with skin! If you are one of those artists who exclusively use your hands (without gloves) to apply paint to a surface, then you need to protect yourself better by wearing nitrile gloves, or start using more conventional application methods like brushes or palette knives. You are putting your health at risk. I get small amounts of paint on my skin, but I wash it off so that it doesn’t stay in contact with my skin for extended periods of time. I also use a barrier cream on my hands that helps form a protective layer between my skin and the paint. I also use paint that doesn’t contain heavy metals.
Also be aware that using spray paint or spray fixatives or varnishes without respirators or masks is also hazardous to your health. Anytime you are inhaling sprayed paint, or even particles from the sanding of dried acrylic paint, those particles can get lodged in your lungs. The use of either polyester or epoxy resin is also harmful to your health. Polyester being the worst offender, but epoxy is also potentially toxic when the vapors are breathed in on a continuous basis. I have talked to countless artists who are currently chasing the epoxy resin fad and they use no ventilation system or respirators while using the product, and have no idea the potential damage they are doing to their bodies. Some products are much safer than others, and some claim to be completely non-toxic. if that is the case that is wonderful, just be sure you know the material you are using and use it according to the manufacturers instructions.
If you work with any paint products, be aware of the health risks and protect yourself. Let’s be careful out there.
If you'd like to learn about abstract painting, then please join me for a painting workshop: (You can view a list of 2019-2020 workshops HERE)
August 7-9 David M. Kessler Fine Art Studio, Winston-Salem, NC. For information and Registration Click Here. Sold Out!
August 23-25 Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment, Huntsville, AL. For information and registration Click Here.
September 9-12 Pacific Northwest Art School, Whidbey Island, WA. For information and registration Click Here.
September 20-22 Associated Louisiana Artists, Lake Charles, LA. For more information and registration Click Here.
October 4-6 Arts and Design Society, Fort Walton Beach, FL. For more information and registration contact Hanna at hanna222@cox.net.
October 14-16 Sharon Serrago Studio, Richardson, TX. For information and registration Click Here.
October 24-26 Arizona Art Supply, Phoenix, AZ. For information and registration Click Here.
November 4-6 David M. Kessler Fine Art Studio, Winston-Salem, NC. For information and Registration Click Here. Sold Out!
November 16-17 Art of the Carolinas, Raleigh, NC-Sponsored by Jerry’s Artarama. For information and registration Click Here.
As always, thanks for your support!
David
P.S. If you you'd like to learn more about Abstract Painting in the comfort of your home or studio, I have a great course called Abstract Painting Academy available for you:
Abstract Painting Academy is an online workshop experience. It is my best and most thorough course covering everything you need to become a better abstract painter.
Subscriber Painting Discount. If you are a subscriber to my email list, one of the perks is a 50% discount on all paintings on my website over $300 - like the painting shown here. You’ll also get a free ebook just for signing up.
You Can Sign-Up and Become a Subscriber Here.
You Can View My Paintings Here. Use the Coupon Code: EMAILDISCOUNT at check out.
