Why Tempera Colours Painting is Making a Comeback in Contemporary Art

Tempera colours painting, once the dominant medium of the Renaissance and Medieval periods, is experiencing a resurgence in contemporary art. For centuries, this technique, known for its vibrant, matte finish and remarkable durability, was largely overshadowed by the rise of oil painting. However, modern artists are rediscovering the unique qualities of tempera, incorporating it into their works, and exploring its potential in new ways. In this article, we will delve into why tempera colours painting is making a comeback in contemporary art, its appeal to today’s artists, and the various ways it is being reinterpreted in the 21st century.

The Timeless Appeal of Tempera Colours Painting

Tempera colours painting has been a staple of art history, with its roots going back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. This technique, which uses pigments mixed with egg yolk as a binder, creates vibrant colours and a durable finish that can withstand the test of time. Unlike oil paints, which have a slow drying time and allow for gradual blending, tempera dries quickly, making it an ideal medium for artists who prefer precision and fine detail.

For centuries, tempera was used in religious iconography, manuscript illumination, and early portraiture. Iconic artists such as Fra Angelico, Sandro Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci helped elevate tempera to the height of artistic expression during the Renaissance. However, with the advent of oil painting in the 15th century, tempera was gradually replaced by this more versatile medium. Despite this, tempera’s historical significance and unique properties have always kept it in the background of artistic discussions.

Why Tempera Colours Painting is Making a Comeback

Several factors contribute to the revival of tempera colours painting in contemporary art. One of the primary reasons for this resurgence is a renewed interest in traditional techniques. Many modern artists are looking for ways to break free from the constraints of digital and mass-produced media, and tempera offers a return to a tactile, hands-on approach to creating art. Here are some of the key reasons why artists are turning back to tempera:

1. Desire for Traditional Craftsmanship In an age dominated by digital art and mass production, there is a growing desire to reconnect with traditional artistic methods. Tempera, with its rich history and meticulous application, provides artists with the opportunity to engage in a more hands-on, craft-based process. The medium demands patience, precision, and skill, and many contemporary artists are drawn to the challenge it offers. Tempera colours painting encourages a slower, more thoughtful approach to creating art, which contrasts with the instant gratification provided by modern technology.

   

2. Environmental and Sustainable Concerns As the art world becomes increasingly aware of environmental sustainability, tempera has an appeal because it is made from natural, non-toxic materials. The pigments used in tempera can be sourced from the earth, and the egg yolk binder is a biodegradable, renewable resource. This stands in contrast to the synthetic chemicals used in many modern paints, which may pose environmental and health risks. As artists become more conscious of their ecological footprint, tempera offers an eco-friendly alternative that aligns with a sustainable approach to art-making.

3. Vibrancy and Durability One of the hallmarks of tempera colours painting is its remarkable durability. Tempera paints dry to a hard, matte finish that resists fading and cracking over time, making it ideal for creating artwork that will endure for centuries. The natural vibrancy of tempera pigments, especially when applied in thin, translucent layers, creates a luminous quality that is unmatched by oil paints. Contemporary artists who seek to create work that lasts and retains its intensity are rediscovering the benefits of tempera for long-lasting, vibrant artworks.

4. Unique Aesthetic and Precision The precision required in tempera painting also attracts contemporary artists who appreciate fine detail and a smooth, polished finish. Unlike oil paint, which allows for gradual blending and the creation of soft transitions, tempera demands sharp, clean lines. This technique works especially well for artists who want to create highly detailed works with a clear, crisp aesthetic. Many modern tempera artists experiment with highly detailed portraiture, landscapes, and even abstract work, using the unique properties of tempera to achieve a look that is distinct and evocative.

How Contemporary Artists Are Using Tempera Colours Painting

Today, tempera colours painting is being reinterpreted in various ways. Contemporary artists are adapting the traditional technique to suit modern sensibilities, often blending it with other materials and methods to create innovative works. Some artists are using tempera alongside oil paints, creating mixed-media works that combine the best of both worlds. Others are exploring digital representations of tempera to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary art practices.

Here are some of the ways tempera is being incorporated into modern art:

1. Mixed Media and Layering Techniques Many contemporary artists are experimenting with mixed media, incorporating tempera as one element within a larger composition. By layering tempera with oil paints, acrylics, and even collage elements, artists can create complex, textured works that take advantage of tempera’s precision and vibrancy while adding the versatility of other mediums. This blending of traditional and modern techniques allows artists to push the boundaries of tempera painting, while still honoring its historical significance.

2. Modern Iconography and Portraiture Tempera is often used in modern portraiture and iconography, where artists explore contemporary themes through the lens of traditional techniques. Some artists create modern interpretations of religious or mythological figures using tempera, infusing their works with contemporary symbols and styles. The use of tempera in portraiture allows for a unique approach to capturing facial expressions, skin tones, and textures, giving modern portrait painting a timeless quality.

3. Revitalizing Religious and Spiritual Art Tempera continues to be used in religious and spiritual art, where its ability to capture divine light and intricate detail is still highly valued. Some contemporary artists are reviving religious iconography and sacred art, using tempera to create works that evoke the tradition of Byzantine and Renaissance masters. This revival of tempera in spiritual contexts helps preserve the legacy of sacred art while offering new interpretations for modern audiences.

Conclusion

Tempera colours painting, with its rich history and timeless appeal, is making a comeback in the world of contemporary art. The medium’s ability to create vibrant, long-lasting artwork, combined with its tactile and sustainable nature, has sparked renewed interest among modern artists. Whether used in mixed media compositions, modern portraits, or spiritual art, tempera continues to captivate and inspire artists, offering a bridge between the past and the present. As contemporary artists explore new ways to incorporate tempera into their work, the medium is proving that it remains a vital and relevant force in the art world today.