In artistic contexts, the term signifies a diluted application of pigment or ink, typically across a surface. This technique results in a translucent layer of color, modifying the tone of the underlying material. For example, an artist might apply thinned watercolor paint over a pencil sketch to impart a subtle hue to the drawing while allowing the initial lines to remain visible.
The use of this method provides several advantages, including the creation of atmospheric effects, the suggestion of depth, and the establishment of tonal values in a composition. Historically, it has been employed in a variety of media, from watercolor and ink drawings to oil paintings and acrylic works, offering artists a versatile approach to layering and modulating color. Its adaptability has made it a fundamental technique in both traditional and contemporary art practices.
