Important monochromatic expressions for both drawings and illustrations.
Introducing the series of Graphite-related products which are now part of the "various shades of black" amongst Kuretake products.
What is graphite?
Graphite is a form of carbon such as diamond, charcoal, coal, carbon black, etc.
Even if the elemental symbol is the same, the properties and shapes amongst these all vary due to the differences in underlying crystal structures.
Fluid Graphite 60g
Water-based pigment
Fluid Graphite is a high-viscosity ink that combines graphite with synthetic resin.
Since it is a high-viscosity ink, it can be easily diluted and used as a thinner paint,
or it can be applied in it's original form to create a textured, three-dimensional expression.
GANSAI TAMBI GRAPHITE COLORS
Deep, tranquil Gansai Tambi colors with a matte texture and finish specific to graphite.
Polishing the surface of Graphite Gansai (once dry) reveals a metallic luster.
Altered to have a deep, calming color that reflects a similar color and texture of graphite,
it can be used immediately after diluting it with water.
Q&A
What is the difference between Fluid Graphite and Gansai Tambi Graphite Colors?
Since Fluid Graphite is a high-viscosity ink, you can adjust the density yourself to express an intentional, uneven texture in your artwork. You can also mix with other water-based paint medium.
(The compatibility varies depending on the products, so be sure to test first on a separate piece before using it on your artwork.)
Gansai Tambi Graphite Colors is developed at the beginning to be an easy-to-use graphite concentrated watercolor, so you can use the paint immediately by mixing in your water to begin painting.
Is Fluid Graphite water resistant?
It is not water resistant.
Highly resistant to fading from light exposure, and alcohol resistant. Since it is easily dissolved with water and used in combination with other painting materials, any part of the Fluid Graphite which is not affixed to the paper remains water soluble even after it initially dries. If it is applied to paper in high-viscosity form and then left to dry, it can be revived again with water.
You can also blur the ink slightly by rubbing with your finger like a pencil.
Can it be used as the dominant material for line drawing in illustration?
It is possible to dilute with water and draw thin lines or letters using a glass pen or brush of choice. However, since it is not water resistant, there is a possibility of the ink bleeding if you use the Fluid Graphite for base lines and then color from above using another material.
What are the effect(s) of using Fluid Graphite in combination with other painting materials?
Specifically for those people who draw pictures and illustrations, you can add new expressions and textures to your work by taking advantage of the matte and/or metallic luster of the Fluid Graphite.
Examples of use
Matte Texture: Cloudy/foggy weather, dull colors, smoky nightscapes, etc.
Metallic luster: Raw or household metals such as kettles and flatware, fish scales, coinage, etc.